SNOHOMISH COUNTY—The Snohomish County Council voted unanimously to amend the county code (SCC 30.53A.726) prohibiting the sale of fireworks in all “no fireworks areas” where use is currently banned. Ordinance 23-057 would have no impact on the sale of fireworks this July 4th (2024).
According to RCW 70.77.250(4), ordinances adopted by counties or cities which are more restrictive than state law shall have an effective date no sooner than one year after their adoption. The ordinance will take effect May 2025.
Ordinance 23-057 was proposed by Councilmember Strom Peterson. Many community members who support and oppose the ban on the sale of fireworks in unincorporated Snohomish County provided public comment in person, via the Council’s Zoom meeting option and by email.
“This ordinance is the logical next step in protecting our communities,” said Councilmember Strom Peterson. “Whether it’s a veteran suffering from PTSD, a tinder dry urban forest in danger of catching fire, or the family pet that needs tranquilizers, fireworks can have an adverse impact on so many.”
For years, a ban on the use of fireworks has been in place, however, there was no corresponding restrictions on sales.
“Though the detonation of fireworks in the Southwest Urban Growth Area of Snohomish County has been banned for years, discontinuing the sale of fireworks in this same area is a common-sense measure that will bring clarity to the community,” said Snohomish County Councilmember Megan Dunn. “My vote to support this ordinance is a reflection of my commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship. I encourage every household to exercise good judgement as they celebrate holidays responsibly.”
You can legally discharge fireworks on July 4th in the following cities:
- Bothell (Only sparklers and tanks, which are consumer fireworks, are allowed to be discharged from 9:00 am until 11:00 pm on July 4)
- Darrington (9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. July 4, 9 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. July 5)
- Granite Falls (9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. July 4)
- Lake Stevens (9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. July 4, no fireworks in city parks at all times)
- Monroe (9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. July 4)
- Snohomish (9 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 4)
- Stanwood (9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. July 4, 9 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. July 5)
- Sultan (9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. July 4, 9 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. July 5)
The first discussion of Ordinance 23-057 occurred more than 10 months ago within Snohomish County’s Planning & Community Development Committee. The discussion was continued to allow staff to research several questions and provide additional background information.
“I would like to thank our first responders for their strong support, so many in the community for reaching out, and my council colleagues for the unanimous vote,” Councilmember Peterson added.
SOURCE: Snohomish County Government press release with additions by the Lynnwood Times.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
One Response
I hate this! I know no one cares. Just saying.