The Town Council on June 4 “reluctantly” approved changes to Town Code and fire regulations to adopt language to comply with state law that was updated this past session.

Town Attorney Andrew McGuire said the new state law pre-empts the town’s regulations that banned the use of all but “novelty” fireworks items within town boundaries.

The new law requires that the town permit the use all “consumer” fireworks.

The statute does restrict the sale and use of fireworks to two windows of time that include the Fourth of July and New Year holidays.

Councilman Henry Leger asked Fire Chief Randy Roberts his opinion regarding the new rules.

“We are a little disappointed,” Roberts said. “We do all we can to protect, and this adds the possibility of issues.

“The washes and brush is very dry, all it needs is a source of ignition.”

Roberts said the department will be stepping up manpower and equipment to cover the upcoming July 4 holiday, however, a portion of that will need to be dedicated to oversight of the commercial fireworks display at Fountain Park July 4.

Mayor Linda Kavanagh said the change in law will help eliminate some confusion about what is legal.

“The items sold in the stores will be what are permitted for use,” Kavanagh said. “We would ask people to use common sense. The fire danger is extreme and it is very dangerous with all the dry brush.”

Kavanagh also urged citizens to be aware of what is going on and report any activity that may be reckless or negligent.