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Independence Day revelers in Des Moines are being warned to follow fireworks rules.
Consumer fireworks are allowed only on private property in Des Moines.
That means they're banned in parks, on streets and sidewalks, and in other public spaces.
City Fire Chief Jonathan Lund says there are unintended fires set every year by the use of commerical fireworks.
"One of the things we love about Des Moines is the mature trees, the tightly-knit, tightly packed neighborhoods with houses close together. It encourages us to get out and know our neighbors. Unfortunately, that's one of the reasons why consumer fireworks are so dangerous. We don't know where those fireworks are going to end up, " said Lund.
Lund says each year, use of consumer fireworks causes unintended fires, putting a strain on emergency services.
New rules also ban fireworks in public parks, where vandals did substantial damage in 2024.
City Parks and Recreation Manager Mike Gaul says park staff and city police will be patrolling city parks again this year to ensure fireworks are not being set off illegally.
Violators face 200-dollar fines.
Fireworks are permitted on privcate property on July 3 from 9 am until 10 pm and on July 4 from 9 am until 11 pm.