MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As Fourth of July festivities approach, the Hutchinson Fire Department is reminding residents of fireworks regulations and safety procedures during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.
Expanded sales period, but discharge rules Unchanged
A recent change by the Kansas Legislature now allows year-round fireworks sales in fixed retail buildings, similar to neighboring states like Missouri and Oklahoma. For temporary retail stands—commonly set up in tents—the allowed sales period has also been extended by state law to run from June 20 through July 8.
However, Fire Marshal Michael Cain emphasized that the discharge dates within Hutchinson remain the same: residents may only discharge fireworks from June 30 through July 4, between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Strict guidelines for fireworks stands
Cain outlined the multi-step inspection process required before a fireworks tent can open. Vendors must first secure a license from the State Fire Marshal before submitting a detailed application to the city, including a site plan, insurance, and contact information.
“We make sure the tent is placed according to the plan, and that safety distances from buildings are maintained,” Cain said. After the structure and signage are installed, a final inspection is conducted before any fireworks can be sold.
Once tents are open, inspectors make at least two unannounced visits per day to ensure continued compliance.
Discharge locations and safety precautions
Discharging fireworks is permitted only on private property, and not on public streets or in parks without a special use permit. Cain emphasized that fireworks must be used in open spaces away from structures and combustible materials, with driveways being the safest option.
“Years ago, people were allowed to use apartment or church parking lots with permission,” he noted. “But now, without a city-issued permit, it’s strictly limited to private property.”
Proper disposal: A must to prevent fires
Cain stressed the importance of safe disposal. He advised residents to soak used fireworks in water before placing them in the trash.
“Don’t just sweep them up and throw them in the polycart. We’ve responded to house fires because people didn’t properly extinguish fireworks,” he warned.
Fireworks stands rebounding after policy change
Hutchinson has seen a resurgence in fireworks stand applications since reinstating aerial fireworks. This year, 11 stands are approved up from a low of just four or five during the period when only “safe and sane” fireworks were allowed.
Public displays get thorough oversight
The city also plays a role in inspecting large public fireworks displays, including the annual show at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.
“Even though the state licenses the providers, we still inspect the site, monitor setup, and ensure safety conditions like wind are appropriate,” Dowling said. “We’ve only had to cancel once due to weather in recent memory.”
The Hutchinson Fire Department encourages all residents to enjoy the holiday responsibly and keep safety top of mind.
“Fireworks are part of the fun,” said Cain “We want everyone to make it through the Fourth with good memories—not a visit from the fire department.”