City of Hays
The City of Hays is seeking public input through a concise, five-question survey regarding the use of fireworks within city limits.
City leaders aim to understand residents’ views amid increasing popularity of personal-use aerial fireworks and rising concerns about fire safety during drought conditions.
City Manager Toby Dougherty emphasized the importance of resident feedback in guiding the City Commission's discussions on fireworks policies.
“As aerial fireworks gain popularity, we need clear insights from residents about their experiences and concerns,” Dougherty said. “This feedback will be pivotal in shaping discussions and potential policy adjustments in the coming months.”
Currently, the city's fireworks policy allows the sale and use of common fireworks from July 2 through July 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., unless suspended due to adverse weather conditions or safety concerns. The survey is designed to quickly gather essential information from residents on their opinions about maintaining or adjusting this policy.
Fire officials highlight that ongoing drought conditions elevate the risks associated with fireworks.
Increasingly dry and warm conditions raise concerns about potential fire outbreaks, underscoring the urgency of this community feedback initiative.
Completing the survey takes only a few minutes, providing city leaders critical data to assess whether current guidelines adequately address community safety.
“We encourage every resident to participate, as their responses directly influence future policy decisions,” Dougherty said.
The survey is available online at https://form.jotform.com/251184874225157 and will remain open through May.
For more information about current firework policy, residents are urged to visit HaysUSA.com.