Why Can’t I Use Fireworks in North Liberty?
Each year, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires, causing deaths, injuries and millions in direct property damage. In 2023, North Liberty emergency responders delt with to fires and injuries caused by illegal fireworks in town. In addition to damage, the loud explosions can be scary to pets, unsettling to veterans and disruptive to kids.
The use of consumer fireworks in North Liberty is prohibited.
If they’re illegal to use, then why can you buy them in town? The local sale of fireworks, which is allowed as required by state law, can lead to confusion because cities still set local rules for the use of consumer fireworks, and the North Liberty City Council has declined to legalize their use within city limits, so consumer fireworks are prohibited. Novelty fireworks, including sparklers and similar items, remain legal to use.
Every year, North Liberty and other jurisdictions receive complaints from residents about their neighbors using fireworks. The most effective deterrent is residents talking to their neighbors who are using fireworks illegally. Additionally, reports can also be made to countywide dispatch at (319) 356-6800. Those who use fireworks without permits can face hundred of dollars in fines.
North Liberty will host a licensed and insured professional display on July 3 at Penn Meadows Park as part of the City Slate of events in addition to its annual mid-winter display as part of Beat the Bitter.
Local professional displays include:
- North Liberty’s City Slate at Penn Meadows Park on July 3 at 9:30 p.m.
- Freedom Festival in downtown Cedar Rapids on July 4 at dark
- 4th Fest at S.T. Morrison Park in Coralville on July 4 at 9:45 p.m.
- Iowa City Jazz Festival in downtown Iowa City on July 5 at 9:30 p.m.
Information about permits for the use or sale of fireworks is available from the North Liberty Fire Department.
