City officials remind residents that fireworks are illegal in Kent

Kent city officials want to remind residents that fireworks are illegal in town.

The city’s ban prohibits the sale, possession and use of all consumer fireworks as part of an effort to eliminate fires, injuries and fire-related complaints.

This year marks the second year for the city’s ban, approved by the City Council after a 2015 advisory ballot measure showed nearly 67 percent of voters supported the ban.

Violators could face a $250 fine and have their fireworks confiscated.

Kent Police will conduct emphasis patrols and respond to reports of fireworks to issue citations and enforce the ban.

Police Chief Rafael Padilla, however, said officers won’t be able to respond to all complaints.

“It’s important for our community to understand that we are going to do our very best to respond to fireworks complaints, but we know going into this year’s holiday that we simply do not have the resources to get to them all,” Padilla said in a city media release. “Protecting lives and preserving property will be the priority. If last year is any indication of how things will go, we will have our hands full simply responding to the emergency 911 calls, let alone fireworks complaints.”

The city is encouraging families to enjoy the public display of fireworks at the Lake Meridian Splash at 10:15 p.m. on the Fourth of July, which is a Wednesday. The festivities begin at noon and go until the fireworks show is over.

Reporting violations

To report fireworks being discharged near your property, in a public park or on school property, or if you observe fireworks sales within the city limits, call 253-852-2121. To report fireworks emergencies, call 911. Police will prioritize fireworks-related complaints among other calls for service.