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Fireworks FAQs

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1. When can I purchase consumer fireworks in Kearney?

On June 29th and until July 4th.

2. May I go to Missouri or another state and buy fireworks and bring them back to Kearney?

No. It is illegal to transport fireworks across the state line as stated in Nebraska State Statue 28-1248. Only a licensed distributor or jobber may bring fireworks into the State.

3. When can I discharge (shoot) permissible fireworks in the City of Kearney?

June 29th to July 2nd 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; July 3rd and July 4th 8:00 a.m. to midnight.

4. What kind of fireworks can I purchase at a retail stand in Kearney?

Fireworks that are classified as Consumer Fireworks or novelties may be sold at retail stands. The following items are not classified as consumer fireworks:

• Rockets that are mounted on a stick or wire and project in the air when ignited, with or without report.
• Wire sparklers, except that silver and gold sparklers are deemed to be consumer fireworks until January 1, 2014.
• Nighttime parachutes.
• Fireworks that are shot into the air and after coming to the ground cause automatic ignition due to sufficient temperature.
• Firecrackers that contain more that fifty milligrams of explosive composition.
• Fireworks that have been tested by the State Fire Marshal as a response to complaints and have been deemed to be unsafe.

For more information on consumer fireworks, please visit the Nebraska State Fire Marshal website. website

5. Is there an age limit to purchase fireworks?

No. Only in the selling of fireworks. A person employed by another to sell consumer fireworks must be at least 18 years of age. Persons age 14 through 18 may sell fireworks when working in the direct presence and supervision of an adult 21 years of age or older.

6. What are the requirements to have a firework stand in Kearney?

Stands must be located within the city limits and in an area of the city zoned for business or manufacturing. Stands must be a temporary structure used only for the purpose for selling consumer fireworks. Purchase consumer fireworks from a distributor or a jobber who holds a current license with the State of Nebraska.

7. Do I need a license from the State of Nebraska?

Yes. Before applying for a permit from the City Fire Administrator you must have a license from the Nebraska Fire Marshal. You may apply on line by going to their website and follow the menu. website

8. Do I need a permit to sell fireworks?

Yes. Any person selling or offering for sale consumer fireworks in the City of Kearney shall first have made application for and receive a permit from the City Fire Administrator. Application forms are available at Fire Station 1, 2211 Avenue A.

9. Is there a fee for having a fireworks stand?

Yes. There is a fireworks occupation tax fee of $150 and a permit to sell fireworks fee of $200. There is also a deposit of $100 per stand. This deposit is refundable if the stand is removed in accordance with city code.

10. Where can I find more information on fireworks stands?

City of Kearney Code, Chapter 4 Article 6 and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal website at www.sfm.state.ne. Code

11. Why can retail stores sell fireworks before June 29?

These are called Novelty Fireworks and are not regulated. They contain small amounts of explosive composition but do not fall under the category of Consumer Fireworks. Such devices produce limited visible or audible effects. Examples are snakes, novelty snappers, smoke items, Champagne Party Poppers, 8” or less gold or silver wire or wooden sparklers, etc.

12. Where can I find information on Fireworks safety?

Fireworks safety information can be found by clicking this link: Fireworks Safety