McMinnville Police Department wants everyone to enjoy the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, but with safety in mind about the dangers of fireworks and education on local ordinances regarding their use.

“Fireworks. July 4 is coming,” said Alderman Stacey Harvey, during a city Safety Committee meeting. “Pardon my ignorance, but what is the city’s ordinance on fireworks in the city? There’s a lot of varying interpretations to that, and I think we might need to let people know.” 

Discharge of fireworks inside the city of McMinnville is allowed June 8 through July 8 during the hours of 1 p.m. through 12 a.m. midnight. 

However, any use of fireworks in residential areas after 10:30 p.m. shall be considered disturbing the peace where residents have complained to the police, and the police department has notified the users to discontinue the use of fireworks. 

“If people complain, then you have to stop,” said McMinnville Police Chief Nichole Mosley. “Most of the time, people don’t complain unless it’s really late at night and a neighbor is continuously shooting and shooting and shooting. Then, it’s causing a disturbance and we’ll ask you to stop.”

McMinnville Police Department encourages residents to enjoy public displays of fireworks. When using consumer fireworks, please follow these safety tips:

• Only light fireworks outdoors away from homes and flammable materials

• Follow all instructions and warnings

• Keep source of water nearby in case of fire

• Wear eye protection

• Do not allow children to handle or ignite fireworks

Report fireworks complaints to 668-7000, the dispatch center’s non-emergency number. Call 911 during emergencies, which are situations that require immediate assistance from the police, fire or ambulance.