Prior to a commercial firework display, a license should be obtained from the City Clerk's office.   

To Apply:

1. Complete application
2. Submit application with appropriate fee and any required documentation to:
   • City Clerk’s Office, 1225 6th Avenue, Suite 110, Marion, IA 52302

Next Steps:

Once your application has been submitted, we will forward your application to the appropriate departments for approval.  This process can take two to six weeks. Upon approval, a license will be mailed to you at the mailing address listed on your application.

Business owners looking to sell fireworks within the City of Marion, see the information below.

State of Iowa Fireworks License Application Information

Effective May 9, 2017, Iowa legalized the sale and use of consumer-grade fireworks.

There is no Marion application for consumer firework sales, however, a tent permit is required if applicable. 

Possession and Use of Fireworks
Per the Marion Code of Ordinances, it is unlawful for any person to possess, store, use, ignite or explode any fireworks not permitted by State law, within the City limits unless that person is the holder of a valid permit or license.

It is unlawful for any person to use, ignite or explode any fireworks except those items defined as a novelty in the American Pyrotechnics Association Standard 87-1 Chapter 3.2, within the City limits except for on the following dates and times:

• July 3 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• July 4 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• December 31 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. on January 1

1. Never let children handle, play with, or light any fireworks without adult supervision.
2. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
3. Use a clear, open area and keep the audience a safe distance from the shooting site.
4. Do not attempt to make or alter any fireworks device.
5. Only purchase and light 1.4G consumer fireworks. Examples include bottle rockets, Roman candles and fire crackers.
6. Only light one firework item at a time and never attempt to re-light or fix a “dud” firework.
7. Never hold the firework when lighting it.
8. Have a fire extinguisher, water supply, hose, or bucket of water nearby.
9. Use extreme caution when lighting fireworks in the wind. Keep spectators 20 feet away and where the wind is blowing away from them. 
10. Stay at least 20 feet away from all structures.
11. Never smoke or drink alcoholic beverages while handling fireworks.
12. Never aim, point or throw fireworks at another person.
13. Sparklers burn at extremely hot temperatures from 1200 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. Glow sticks make an excellent, safer alternative to sparklers, especially for young children.
14. More safety information  - U.S. Fire Administration