MIPD responds to 13 fireworks-related complaints on July 4

Published 3:30 pm Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Although the city of Mercer Island reminded residents through social media that there’s a local ban on discharging consumer fireworks at all times, Mercer Island Police Department (MIPD) officers responded to 13 fireworks-related complaint calls on July 4.

Commander Jeff Magnan said no injuries were reported and there were no significant fireworks-related enforcement actions.

“All of these incidents were resolved through warnings or because the subjects had left prior to officers’ arrival,” said Magnan, adding that juveniles were involved in most of the complaints. “When officers made contact, they located a responsible adult to take custody of the juveniles and any fireworks involved.”

According to the city, the ban was established because fireworks increase the risk of serious injuries, property damage and brush fires. The city added that, “Loud fireworks can stress pets, wildlife and neighbors, including veterans. Fireworks-related calls can strain the capacity of first responders.”

Professional fireworks displays — like at the July 11 Summer Celebration — are still allowed if properly permitted.

On Independence Day, MIPD patrol officers responded to a pair of massive juvenile parties where attendees were setting off fireworks. After contacting the homeowners, officers informed the residents about the ban and remained at both scenes until the crowds dispersed.

Magnan detailed three other fireworks-related service calls to Luther Burbank Park, Island Crest Park and the South Playfields.

“Officers issued warnings in two of the incidents, while in the third case they were unable to locate anyone upon arrival. Patrol personnel believe that keeping the lights on at several of the athletic fields likely discouraged additional gatherings and reduced activity in the parks throughout the evening,” he said.

An impromptu parade occurred during that day of fireworks enforcement. While two officers were out on patrol, a group of children and families asked the MIPD members to lead a short Fourth of July procession — and they gladly participated to create positive community engagement, Magnan said.

While assessing MIPD officers’ activities on July 4, Magnan said the “officers maintained a visible presence throughout the community, resolved incidents through education and voluntary compliance whenever possible, and helped ensure the holiday concluded safely.”

Mercer Island City Council unanimously adopted a permanent ban ordinance at its May 7, 2024, meeting that also prohibits the sale of consumer fireworks on the Island, according to a previous Reporter story. That year, there was a ban on discharging at-home fireworks “due to extreme fire danger,” but consumer fireworks could still be sold legally on the Island.

A permanent ban on discharging and selling fireworks went into effect in 2025.

City Manager Jessi Bon and former Eastside Fire & Rescue Chief Ben Lane signed the 2024 fireworks discharge ban order on May 1 of that year regarding the major issue with the Seattle Public Utilities primary water supply pipeline to the Island.