As you finalize plans this 4th of July, be sure you are obeying the City of Johnston’s fireworks ordinance. Discharging fireworks within city limits is illegal. Novelty fireworks like sparklers and snakes are allowed.
Fireworks Use: Johnston prohibits the use of fireworks within the city limits. Disregarding the fireworks ordinance is a violation and is punishable by a fine up to a $500 per violation. (City Code Chapter 41.12)
If fireworks are illegally discharged on private property, the property owner can be held responsible for sponsoring the gathering and associated fireworks activities. (City Code Chapter 40.07(1)(H))
Fireworks Sales: In 2017, the Iowa legislature took action to allow sales of consumer fireworks in Iowa from June 1 through July 8. The City’s code limits the sale of fireworks to C-2 and C-3 retail commercial zoning districts.
We encourage you to skip the fine, instead enjoy professional, permitted fireworks display in the Des Moines area.
- Altoona: After 9:45 p.m., Thursday, July 4 at Adventureland
- Des Moines: At dusk, Wednesday, July 3 on the West Terrace of the state Capitol
- Grimes: At dusk, Thursday, July 4 at the South Sports Complex
- Urbandale: 10:00 p.m., Thursday, July 4 at Walker Johnston Park west side
- West Des Moines: At dusk, Thursday, July 4 over Blue Heron Lake
- Windsor Heights: At dusk, Thursday, July 4 at Colby Park
For questions about Johnston’s fireworks ordinance, contact Fire Marshal Craig Ver Huel at 515-276-5182. To report illegal fireworks, call the Johnston Police Department at 515-278-2345. It is helpful if the caller provides a house address on where the fireworks are being discharged.