Police to receive fewer complaints about fireworks in 2024 | News, Sports, Jobs

TR FILE PHOTO – Marshalltown police have seen a decrease in complaints about fireworks being used within city limits, with the police chief saying residents caught setting off fireworks will be cited.

There is a downward trend in the number of complaints related to fireworks.

Marshalltown Police Chief Mike Tupper said there haven’t been many complaints this year.

“In previous years we’ve had dozens (per week),” he said. “So far it’s been quiet.”

Last week, from June 23 to June 29, Tupper said his department received 20 complaints about fireworks. From June 16 to June 22, only eight calls were received. In 2023, from June 23 to June 29, the MPD received 25 complaints. During the same period in 2022, there were 53 complaints and in 2021, there were 60.

It is difficult to say why the complaints have decreased, said Tupper.

“The law has been in force for several years now and I think the novelty has worn off,” he said.

Tupper said officers have also been aggressive in issuing citations in recent years, which may have helped as well.

“It is impossible to know why complaints are declining,” he said.

Since June, the MPD has placed a special emphasis on educating Marshalltown residents about fireworks laws.

“The public had the opportunity to learn the rules,” Tupper said.

He said he realizes it might be confusing to some people why they are allowed to buy fireworks but not set them off within city limits.

“State law requires that the sale of fireworks must be allowed,” Tupper said. “The city cannot prevent that. The state also allows the city to regulate the use of those fireworks, and it was Marshalltown’s decision to prohibit the use of fireworks.”

Fortunately, no fireworks-related accidents have been reported. However, since it is now July, the police chief expects an increase in complaints throughout the week. Tupper said officers will be proactive in issuing tickets to Marshalltown residents caught setting off fireworks.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy,” he said.

Those who receive summons must appear in court. Tupper said if convicted, the judge will impose a fine of “at least $250, but theoretically it could be higher.”

In past years, especially on the Fourth of July, officers have not been able to respond to every single complaint about fireworks. There were simply too many. Tupper said night shift supervisors are working on a plan to address that this year.

“For the past few years, we’ve paid overtime so people could answer the calls,” he said. “Officers respond to calls about fireworks. We don’t have a high tolerance right now.”

Tupper added that he encourages residents to attend the Red, White & Blue Celebration in the 13th Street District. On July 3, there will be a car show at 5 p.m. and live music at 7 p.m. On July 4, the event includes a parade at 10 a.m., children’s activities, a community picnic and vendors at 11 a.m., softball and little league games at 1:30 p.m., and activities continue from 4 to 10 p.m., including a fireworks display.

“There will be great activities that people can do to celebrate the holiday without violating city ordinance,” he said.

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Contact Lana Bradstream

at 641-753-6611 extension 210 or

[email protected].