Independence Day is upon us and lots of people celebrate by shooting off fireworks. 

However, Jefferson Police Captain Jason Kroeger says within city limits, consumer fireworks are still illegal. He explains other than obtaining a permit with city council approval to use fireworks, only novelty fireworks, including snakes, sparklers and smoke bombs are allowed. Kroeger comments that they receive several phone calls before and after the 4th of July of fireworks being discharged in town. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio police officers try to be considerate to people, especially if it’s their first offense, but people can also be cited for breaking the local ordinance.

“That being said, tickets are issued, we’ve got to keep the peace (with) Dogs, people for a litany of reasons, the loud explosions, it can be very disturbing for people and we try to be respectful of that.”

Kroeger notes that there are temporary sales of fireworks that are allowed in Jefferson, which is allowed through a permit process, that is a change from the Iowa Legislature and the city consents to it.