MUSCATINE, Iowa – As residents prepare to celebrate the New Year, the City of Muscatine reminds everyone that consumer fireworks are only allowed during a limited timeframe. In Muscatine, the use of consumer fireworks for New Year’s celebrations is permitted from 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, through 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Only first- and second-class fireworks may be used during this period.
Be a Good Neighbor
The City encourages residents to be good neighbors, to celebrate responsibly and considerately, be respectful of neighbors who may be sensitive to fireworks noise, be mindful of pets who may be frightened by firework explosions, and avoid discharging fireworks near property lines without permission as others may not want fireworks discharged or landing on their real property.
Where Fireworks Can Be Used
Consumer fireworks may only be used on:
- Your own property
- Property where the owner has given explicit consent
Fireworks are prohibited on public property, including streets, sidewalks, parks, and public parking lots.
Supervision and Age Restrictions
- Persons 17 years and younger may only discharge fireworks under direct adult supervision.
- Adults are responsible for ensuring minors follow safety rules.
Legal Responsibilities and Penalties
- Using fireworks outside the designated time is a violation and can result in fines of $250 or more per violation.
- Anyone discharging fireworks, or allowing fireworks to be discharged on their property, assumes responsibility for any consequences.
- Reckless or unsafe use—including discharging fireworks while intoxicated, altering fireworks, or creating a fire hazard—is prohibited under city code.
Emergency Reporting
- Report illegal fireworks use: Muscatine Police Department non-emergency line at 563-263-9922
- Report fires in buildings, vehicles, or greenspaces: Call 911 immediately
Highlights from Muscatine City Code
- Fireworks must be discharged on private property or with property owner consent.
- Minors must be supervised by an adult in direct sight and sound.
- Reckless discharge, intoxicated use, or tampering with fireworks is prohibited.
- Snakes, sparklers, or caps may be used in public places unless prohibited by the property owner, and all debris must be properly disposed of.
- Sky lanterns are only allowed if tethered by a rope that gives full control of the device.
Residents are encouraged to review the City of Muscatine Fireworks Safety page for more information and tips to keep celebrations safe and enjoyable.