It’s nearly time for fireworks fill the air in celebration of Independence Day. This year comes with the celebration of America’s 250th birthday, adding even more flair.
While cities across the Des Moines metro and the rest of Iowa are celebrating America’s 250th birthday, changes to the law have loosened restrictions on when others can set off fireworks.
Here is what you should know about when and where you can set off fireworks ahead of the patriotic holiday.
When can you shoot fireworks in Iowa?
Across the Des Moines metro and across the state, fireworks can be set off between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. on July 3 and 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4.
Last year, changes to state law loosened restrictions on fireworks, prohibiting city and county governments from regulating or prohibiting Iowans’ use of fireworks on July 3, July 4, and Dec. 31.
Des Moines is one of several metro cities that have historically banned fireworks, but changed its city ordinance to comply with Iowa law.
“Last year, our community made impressive strides by respecting the updated rules, which directly resulted in less damage to our community spaces and parks,” Mayor Connie Boesen said in a 2026 news release from the City of Des Moines. “We are asking residents to maintain that same respect and vigilance this year. Let’s keep the celebrations safe, responsible, and localized to private property so our public spaces remain beautiful for everyone to enjoy.”
Under the state law, local governments cannot ban or restrict fireworks use on the three permissible dates unless they determine:
People can only set off fireworks on their own property or with permission from the property owner. Fireworks are still not allowed in city parks and on other city-owned property without prior approval.
What types of fireworks are allowed in Iowa?
Under Iowa law, people can fire off consumer fireworks, which include:
Display fireworks, often used in professional shows, require a permit from city or county officials. People must be 18 or older to purchase consumer fireworks. Using fireworks in areas where they are banned is a simple misdemeanor in Iowa, punishable by a minimum fine of $250.
How can you report fireworks law violations in Des Moines?
In Des Moines, officers will focus their enforcement efforts around city parks, according to the news release from the city.
Fireworks are prohibited at all times in Des Moines parks, streets, sidewalks, and other public areas under city ordinance. Violations of the city ordinance and outside of permitted times and dates will result in a $200 fine.
Prior to the ordinance changes last year, the Des Moines Park and Recreation Department reported damage from fireworks at 19 of its parks, including one incident in which a bathroom was blown up.
To make a complaint about fireworks being shot off outside of the approved hours or on public property, you can call the Des Moines Police Department’s non-emergency number at 515-283-4811.
Police ask that before calling that you’re willing to meet with an officer, provide photo or video evidence, and agree to testify in court.
“Our goal is to foster a safe and fun holiday for every neighborhood,” Des Moines Police Chief Michael McTaggart said in the release. “We urge everyone to remain considerate of neighbors who are affected by loud fireworks, including veterans and residents with anxious pets. If you need to report a violation, please remember that our response may take some time due to high holiday call volumes, and our officers will need specific assistance from you to successfully issue a citation.”
Cooper Worth is a service/trending reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at cworth@gannett.com or follow him on X @CooperAWorth.
Kyle Werner is the breaking news and public safety reporter for the Register. Reach him at kwerner@registermedia.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Know when, where you can shoot off fireworks ahead of the 4th of July
Reporting by Kyle Werner and Cooper Worth, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Kyle Werner and Cooper Worth, Des Moines Register | USA TODAY Network
