Fireworks enforcement took center stage at the City of Clayton Council meeting on July 17, 2025, as council members debated a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating the discharge of fireworks in residential areas. The ordinance, if approved, would repeal existing regulations and prohibit fireworks in specific zoning districts, including residential and historic areas.

Chief Hamlin addressed the council, highlighting the challenges of enforcing current fireworks laws. He noted that previous bans had proven difficult to enforce, likening the situation to a "game of whack-a-mole." He reported that during the recent holiday weekend, there were approximately 90 calls related to fireworks, with many occurring after the state-mandated ban began at 11 PM. Despite the calls, no enforcement actions were taken, underscoring the difficulties faced by law enforcement in curbing fireworks use.

The proposed ordinance would restrict the discharge of fireworks to licensed exhibitors only, a shift from the total bans implemented by neighboring cities. Council member Henning motioned to approve the ordinance, emphasizing the need to address residents' concerns about safety and debris from fireworks. However, the motion failed to receive a second, causing the ordinance to die on the table.

The discussion revealed a divide among council members regarding the best approach to fireworks regulation. While some expressed the need for stricter controls to protect neighborhoods, others cautioned against creating inconsistencies within the city. The council's inability to advance the ordinance leaves the current regulations in place, with ongoing concerns about enforcement and community safety remaining unresolved.