While legal fireworks stands are being set up all over western Washington in the run up to Independence Day, the city of Kent is taking a very different approach.
For the first time in the city's history, all fireworks are banned, according to a new ordinance.
Where dozens of stands sold "safe and sane" fireworks at this time last year, there are no tents, no fireworks, and no tolerance in the new law.
In 2015, a Kent citizens’ advisory vote indicated more than 60 percent of citizens favored a complete ban of all fireworks.
The city of Kent is pulling out all the stops to make sure everyone is aware of the new ban.
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Electronic news message boards and robo-calls will alert every homeowner about the ban, and the penalties for possession of fireworks. The fine for possession is $250, and Kent Assistant Police Chief Rafael Padilla said they’re preparing for the extra calls with extra staff.
According to the ATF, the confiscated improvised firework devices can be powerful enough to cause death or dismemberment. Those devices were a concern raised in city surveys.
Kent's new ban was voted on in 2016 by the City Council.
State law allows fireworks sales and use between June 28 and July 5, but cities can adopt their own ordinances.
Because it's tougher than state law, and this city waited an extra year before enforcing it.
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Cox Media Group
