Independence Day is approaching. Residents are encouraged to review fireworks regulations in advance of the holiday, including new rules that take effect July 1 in Johnson County.

On Oct. 24, 2024, the Johnson County Board of Supervisors amended regulations relating to the discharge of consumer fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Johnson County, Iowa. Residents may discharge fireworks without a permit from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 3–5; from 9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31; and from midnight to 12:30 a.m. Jan. 1. Discharging fireworks without a permit on dates other than those listed is illegal in unincorporated areas of the county.

A completed application should be provided to the Board of Supervisors Office at least 21 days before the anticipated display. Applications should be addressed to the Board of Supervisors Office in the Johnson County Health and Human Services Building, 855 S. Dubuque St., Suite 314, Iowa City, IA 52240, and delivered by U.S. mail or in person.

The retail sale, wholesale, and storage of consumer and display fireworks in unincorporated areas of Johnson County must occur on parcels zoned MH-Heavy Industrial, as defined in the Unified Development Ordinance. Additional supplemental conditions may apply.

Fireworks displays, sales or storage within the limits of an incorporated municipality are governed by the ordinances of that city, not the Board of Supervisors. For questions, contact the appropriate city hall or fire department. Incorporated municipalities in Johnson County include Coralville, Iowa City, Hills, Lone Tree, North Liberty, Oxford, Shueyville, Solon, Swisher, Tiffin and University Heights. 

Applications for a fireworks permit and additional information are available at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/fireworks.

Questions regarding fireworks display permits for unincorporated areas of Johnson County can be directed to the Board of Supervisors Office at 319-356-6000 or [email protected].

Questions regarding fireworks sales and storage in unincorporated parts of Johnson County can be directed to Johnson County Planning, Development and Sustainability at 319-356-6083 or [email protected].