The fireworks ordinance for the City of Parsons has been changed!  Effective this year, the sale and discharge dates for fireworks have been reduced.  This year fireworks can be sold, and discharged from June 30^th to July 4^th, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m each day.  Fireworks are prohibited in all city parks, and the city cemetery.  Those include Forest Park, Marvel Park, Swimming Pool, Arboretum, Glenwood Park, McElhaney Park, Lopez Park, Railroad Park, Clark Park, Circle Park Winway Park, Tolen Creek Park, Prairie West Park,  the Skate Park, and Oakwood Cemetery.

 

Individuals or organizations wishing to sell fireworks must now obtain a permit from the City of Parsons which can be obtained on the second floor of City Hall.  The cost for a permit is $50.00.  If you are not tax exempt you must also show proof of tax registry at the time you obtain the permit.  Fireworks stands cannot be placed in residential areas, or within 50 feet of another structure.  Before the stand can open the Parsons Fire Department must perform an inspection.

 

During the past, many individuals have been discharging fireworks during the annual Fourth of July celebration at Marvel Park.  This disrupts others around them that are there to enjoy the show, and also puts others in danger.  Fireworks are banned from the city parks, and that includes the levee area adjacent to the college softball field.  Please use common sense, and respect the rights of others.

 

Consider these firework safety tips-do not mix alcohol and fireworks, never give fireworks to small children, make sure your outdoor area is safe for fireworks, have a water source handy in case of fire, dispose of fireworks in a metal container or bucket of water, and never point fireworks at a person, building, or animal.  Fireworks cannot be discharged from a vehicle, or roadway.  Anything that resembles a bottle rocket is illegal.  Please pickup the litter from the discharge of fireworks.  Have a safe and happy Fourth of July.