Explanation
BACKGROUND
This Ordinance reconstitutes a prohibition for any person to possess, discharge, ignite, or explode fireworks within the City of Columbus without express, written approval from the Columbus Division of Fire. While this prohibition on the possession and use of fireworks within the City of Columbus has been in place since 1995 as stated in the City Code, the passage of Ohio House Bill 172 has resulted in a need to repeal and replace Chapter 2533 of the Columbus City Codes to reconstitute this prohibition. Ohio House Bill 172 allows individuals to possess consumer-grade fireworks in Ohio, eliminating a requirement that purchasers transport consumer-grade fireworks out of the state within 48 hours of purchase, and allows any person authorized to possess consumer-grade fireworks to discharge them on their own property or on another person’s property with permission on specifically outlined holidays. However, HB 172 also affords municipal governments authority to restrict the dates and times in which a person may discharge, ignite, or explode fireworks, and/or ban the possession, discharge, ignition, or explosion of fireworks within the confines of their municipal corporation limits. This Ordinance is a result of the City of Columbus exercising its authority to restrict the use of fireworks within the City of Columbus.
EMERGENCY DESIGNATION: Emergency legislation is requested to ensure that the Division of Fire's daily operation may continue uninterrupted, thereby preserving the public peace, property, health, safety, and welfare.
FISCAL IMPACT: No immediate fiscal impact to the City of Columbus.
Title
To repeal and replace Chapter 2533-“Fireworks” of the Columbus City Codes to reconstitute the prohibition on the possession and use of fireworks and explosives within the City of Columbus; and to declare an emergency.
Body
WHEREAS, a goal of the City of Columbus is to align Chapter 2533 of the Columbus City Codes with provisions set fo...
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