Fireworks

New legislation makes exploding fireworks legal only on private property during certain hours on July 3, July 4, and Dec. 31.

The City of Ames' ban on fireworks remains in effect except for the following specific dates and times:

On July 3 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. (or 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. if July 3 is a Saturday or Sunday)
On July 4 between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.
From 9 a.m. on Dec. 31 to 12:30 a.m. on Jan. 1

Property Use Restrictions

The use of consumer fireworks is restricted to private property. To legally explode fireworks, the person exploding fireworks must own the property or have the consent of the owner to use consumer fireworks on that property.

Exploding of consumer fireworks is prohibited on public property. This includes property:

Owned by the City such as parks, streets, sidewalks, trails, and rights-of-way
Owned by the Ames Community School District including school grounds, practice fields, and offices
Owned by Iowa State University including campus, residence halls, and parking lots
Any other public property within City limits.

Enforcement

Fireworks use is strictly limited to the dates and times specified. Any use outside these parameters is illegal and will be enforced. A violation of these fireworks provisions is a simple misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $250.

The use of fireworks on public property remains prohibited at all times and will result in citations.