COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council
FROM: Brian Davis, Fire Chief
SUBJECT:Title
Introduce Ordinance No. 17-1186 Amending Lake Havasu City Code Chapter 8.26, Fireworks, to Conform to State Statutes
Body
FUNDING SOURCE:
N/A
PURPOSE:
Introduce an ordinance amending Chapter 8.26, Fireworks, to expand the use of “Permissible Consumer Fireworks,” as defined by A.R.S. § 36-1601 and other necessary changes to conform to state statutes.
BACKGROUND:
Due to legislative changes over the last few years, the League of Arizona Cities and Towns updated its model fireworks ordinance. Most notably, this proposed ordinance extends the “use” of “Permissible Consumer Fireworks” in order to conform to state statute.
The proposed ordinance continues to allow year-round sale of “Permissible Consumer Fireworks,” but extends the “use” of “Permissible Consumer Fireworks” from June 24 to July 6 and December 24 to January 3, as required by statute.
The sale of fireworks to persons under 16 years of age remains prohibited. The sale, possession, or use of “illegal” fireworks remains prohibited. The use of a licensed fireworks vendor for a public display of fireworks remains unchanged.
Staff recommends the introduction of the proposed ordinance.
Summary:
“Permissible Consumer Fireworks,” such as fountains and sparklers, may be sold and possessed year-round. They may be used during the two specified holiday periods.
“Illegal Fireworks,” such as firecrackers and air shells, remain illegal in Arizona. They may not be sold, possessed, or used at any time.
A “Supervised Public Display” requires a licensed vendor and a fireworks permit.
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
To adopt and update regulations to protect, enhance, and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Lake Havasu City and to prevent fire hazards which threaten the safety of individuals and private and public improvements.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
ATTACHMENTS:
Ordinance No. 17-1186
SUGGESTED MOTION:Recommended Action
I move to introduce Ordinance No. 17-1186 amending Lake Havasu City Code Chapter 8.26, Fireworks, to conform to state statutes.