MERCER ISLAND, Wash. — The sale and use of fireworks is now permanently banned on Mercer Island following the city council's unanimous vote on Wednesday.
The ban prohibits the sale and discharge of consumer fireworks, beginning in 2025. It was adopted following recommendations from Mercer Island's city manager, fire chief and police chief.
However, the council said the ban also came from the "significant safety risk to users, the burden they place on our city’s fire and emergency services, and the noise pollution they cause for neighbors, pets, and veterans."
Hotter and drier summers are also leading to increased wildfire risk, according to Mercer Island’s Climate Action Plan. The local fire department noted a surge in 911 calls on and around the Fourth of July holiday, largely related to fireworks.
Though the ban does not take effect until 2025, the city council and fire chief issued an order prohibiting the use of fireworks this upcoming Fourth of July due to fire danger. This was issued alongside the Mercer Island water conservation emergency. It is still legal for people to sell fireworks this year, according to the order.
In SeaTac, the city recently opted to swap fireworks for drones for its annual Fourth of July celebration.
Professional fireworks displays are not included in the ban and the city said it will continue to allow permits for "appropriate public firework displays" that meet city code, including the annual Summer Celebration fireworks display, held Saturday, July 13.
