The City is aware noise from an off-Island fireworks show was reason for concern late last Saturday, August 19. While this was not a City event, here's a bit more information:
This fireworks show was part of a large event park rental at Seward Park in Seattle. The fireworks barge was located on the lake between the Island and Seattle, and a permit for the display was approved by the Mercer Island City Council at the July 18 City Council meeting, as the event organizers met all City Code requirements.
While the fireworks display was permitted for a 10:35pm start time with an approved duration of 18 minutes, the fireworks vendor did not begin the show until almost an hour later, without notice to the City. The Fire Marshal and the Mercer Island Police Department have been in contact with the vendor and event organizers about this delay, and the vendor issued an apology.
We also understand concerns about a fireworks display taking place during a Stage 2 Burn Ban. Professional fireworks displays on Lake Washington are required to have an “exclusionary zone” that ensures shells fired will not fall on land. The Fire Marshal’s office reviewed the fireworks vendor’s exclusionary zone and found it met fire safety requirements.
The Fire Marshal’s office and City staff are updating administrative policies and code around fireworks displays to implement new time limits, noise restrictions, and cancellation parameters, ensuring a situation like this does not happen again. We also know it’s helpful for Islanders to be aware when a fireworks show will cause a disturbance. This display was louder and more visible to the west side of the Island than anticipated, and we apologize for the lack of notice. We’ll make sure to notify you of permitted fireworks displays moving forward and appreciate your understanding. The City is committed to updating policies and procedures to best serve the community.
