New law on firework sales would limit local government regulations - KGAN TV
A law that could take away city control when it comes to firework sales is on its way to Governor Kim Reynolds' desk.
Cities are required to sell fireworks within city limits following a law change in 2017 that banned firework sales in Iowa for nearly 80 years. Cities have the right to regulate where fireworks are sold and if they could be set off on city grounds.
In North Liberty, the city allows fireworks to be sold in industrial zones. Similar rules apply in Cedar Rapids and Coralville.
“The first couple of years we didn't have any tents, and last year we had 2 tents set up in a couple of different industrial zones," said City Administrator, Ryan Heiar.
The new law would bypass local government and allow retailers to sell in industrial and commercial zones in every city and county.
Those for the bill said it will eliminate inconsistency.
“What this bill does is, provides a check to cities that are trying to use spot zoning as an attempt to do an in a run around a state law that allows fireworks to be sold legally in the state of Iowa," said Republican state senator, Mike Klimes.
Heiar said the issue goes beyond the explosives and is taking away local control.
“There are over 900 cities in Iowa. All of them have unique circumstances. So for one rule to apply across the state, that's going to be difficult," said Heiar.
The bill only releases the restriction on sales. Cities can still place regulations on setting off fireworks. In North Liberty, City Council chose to prohibit explosives to keep the community safe.
Heiar explained that local decision-makers should be the ones making the decisions.
“Residents come to us with their concerns or problems or potential solutions and it seems each year we are limited on how we can move forward in solving some of those problems.”
source: https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/new-law-on-firework-sales-would-limit-local-government-regulations
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