DES MOINES, Iowa — July 4th celebrations are just one week away, and the Des Moines Police Department is preparing for a new law that changes residential fireworks regulations.

Passed in May, the new law legalizes consumer-grade firework use within city limits on July 3 and 4, and December 31. Residents can light fireworks on private property between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. on July 3 and 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4.

Fireworks are still prohibited on city or public grounds, including parks and trails. The Des Moines Police Department says last year, a third of the city’s 77 parks reported damage following the holiday. Police and park staff are focusing resources there this year.

“Our focus is going to be on patrolling and put some emphasis on those park spaces because we have had so much damage and the thing about tearing up our parks is that, that’s not just a one-day deal,” said Sgt. Paul Parizek with the DMPD. “This is something that impacts the neighborhoods, the kids, the families in those neighborhoods, sometimes for up to two weeks while we go and make repairs and that burden then falls on the taxpayer.”

Authorities ask residents to keep their neighbors and community in mind while lighting fireworks, as the noise can be upsetting to some.

“Be conscientious of your neighbors. There are people out there who have some unique sensitivities to these loud noises, whether it’s veterans or pets or small children,” said Sgt. Parizek. “We just want everybody to try and just hyper focus on being a good neighbor and get through this safely.”

Police remind neighbors that reporting fireworks should be done on the non-emergency police line and that callers should be prepared to identify the person who lit the fireworks and be able to participate in court proceedings.

New law aside, the Des Moines Police Department reminds metro residents that having a good time includes obeying laws and staying safe.

“All we’re asking is that you do it safely, that you do it responsibly, that you make sure that you’ve got a bucket of water or something nearby just in case something goes haywire,” said Sgt. Parizek. “Watch your kids. Invite your neighbors, that might help, and just follow the rules and stay sober, and have a good time.”

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