Firework Sales in Iowa

🎯 1. Why Firework Sales in Iowa Are Popular Here

• Seasonal demand: Iowa allows fireworks sales in temporary structures (tents/trailers) from June 13–July 8 each year; permanent retailers can sell June–July and December–January

  
  

• Local vendors: TNT and Ka‑Boomers set up tents in high-traffic lots (e.g., Maple Lanes in Waterloo, Blain’s Farm & Fleet in Cedar Falls) 

  
  

🏗️ 2. Structures

• Common tent types: Rope-and-pole tents (e.g., 20’×40’, 30’×60’) are standard 

  
  

• Permeant Structures

  • Leased and owned brick and mortar locations can be an option

  • Allows for longer periods during the summer (June 1 - July 8) and cold weather firework dates (December 10 - January 8)

  • Utilization in off times (hitting facility, storage, etc)

    
    

📜 3. Zoning & Ordinances

Cedar Falls

• Permitted sale times: July 3 (9 a–10 p), July 4 (9 a–11 p), July 5 (9 a–11 p)

• Consumer fireworks only on private property, debris removal mandatory

• Vendors must display signage stating ordinance rules, and face zero‑tolerance enforcement with $250 fines

Waterloo

• City zoning permits fireworks sales as accessory uses in commercial zones, with tents at least 25 ft from property lines.

• Vendors require a Fire Marshal license, insurance per NFPA 1124, and adherence to standards on stand size and setback.

• Iowa state law: expanded consumer fireworks legality since 2017; statewide temporary vendor tents are legal .

  
  

📍 4. What Makes a Great Firework Location

1. High visibility & traffic: Parking lots off major roads

2. Ample space: Room for tent, carts, lines, parking, pop‑up shade.

3. Zoning compliance: 25 ft setback in Waterloo; distance from residential areas in Cedar Falls.

4. Infrastructure: Easy load-in/out, electrical access, restrooms.

5. Proximity to demand: Near large retailers, grocery stores, or neighborhood clusters.

   
   

   5. Pricing

   • It Can be difficult to find pricing but a few structures exist

     • Flat rent for the season

     • Percentage of sales 

   • Landlords can utilize this these rents to keep CAMs down for current tenants or as additional income

     
     

   Have more info to share on your experience running or leasing a firework tent? Or want to find a spot for your firework stand! Feel free to reach out!