Fireworks now illegal in Valentine, aside from certain holidays or with a permit

VALENTINE, Neb. - Valentine residents will no longer be allowed to light fireworks year-round without a permit, following a city council vote Thursday night.

The new ordinance limits fireworks use to periods when sales are legally allowed—around the Fourth of July and New Year’s—unless a special permit is obtained through the City Office. Each household may apply for up to six permits per year. Violating the ordinance could result in a fine of up to $500.

City officials said the change was prompted by ongoing complaints about a resident regularly shooting off fireworks, particularly loud artillery shells, on a nightly basis.

“We’re talking about the big ones—artillery shells, not the small fireworks,” said resident Alex Jensen, who told the council his dog has been placed on anxiety medication due to the noise.

Mayor Kyle Arganbright said he spoke with the man responsible, Travis Richards, who shared that he began lighting fireworks in honor of his daughter, who serves in the military and couldn't celebrate with fireworks where she was stationed.

Arganbright added that Richards also hopes to launch a pyrotechnics business and a TikTok account featuring fireworks content.

While some council members acknowledged Richards’ intent, they said the disruption to neighbors couldn’t be ignored.

“It’s still a nuisance. It’s disturbing your neighbors,” said City Manager Shane Siewert, who noted that similar ordinances are common in other communities.