Fireworks usage in the City of Washington may be banned by the council in coming weeks. The council asked that the fireworks code be discussed with the possibility of banning the use of fireworks in town. Mayor Jaron Rosien says it’s a tough situation that has been discussed previously with petitions from people both for and against them, “My opinion is that the fireworks in the City of Washington is a no-win situation. It’s not good for people that live here that don’t want them. And it’s not good for people that are here that want to set them off because of being in the city limits, it’s just very challenging. So, unfortunately no matter which side you’re on, it seems to be a no-win situation.”

Currently it is legal for fireworks to only be used on private property on July 3rd and July 4th, and December 31st. They cannot be used in public places like parks and streets. The city can determine when and if fireworks are allowed to be used in town, but the state oversees the sale of fireworks.

The next Washington City Council meeting will be Tuesday, August 4th. It takes three readings for an ordinance to change. Rosien says residents with concerns on either side of the issue should reach out to their elected officials.

See the city’s current fireworks code here.