LISBON — A vote on how to best handle the sale and use of fireworks in town was postponed by leaders Tuesday night following a public hearing.

Town Clerk Twila Lycette said the Town Council sent the draft of a proposed ordinance aimed at creating a layer of restrictions on the sale and use of fireworks to the town’s Police Advisory Committee to review and report back to the Town Council before a final vote.

Town leaders want to allow fireworks, but they want residents to act responsibly.

According to Lycette, town officials heard from members of the public Tuesday before a second, binding vote on rules. Following public input, council members delayed the second vote and asked for a review of the ordinance by the Police Advisory Committee, which includes members of law enforcement and the public.

One recommendation met with interest at the hearing was proposed by Don Fellows, a member of the Lisbon Planning Board, who suggested that residents wanting to use fireworks would be required to apply for a town permit at either the Town Office or the Fire Department. The permits would be per event and not a blanket certificate allowing the same person to set off fireworks multiple times.

Fellows said people would sign an agreement to follow the safety procedures outlined by the town’s ordinance. In addition, authorities would be able to better track the sale and use of fireworks.

Last year, the Maine Legislature lifted its statewide fireworks ban, sending the matter to individual towns and cities to examine. Auburn, Portland and Augusta have passed citywide bans. Lewiston city councilors are contemplating a prohibition.

Lisbon’s proposed ordinance would allow fireworks to be used only three days per year: Jan. 1, July 4 and Dec. 31. It would ban their use on public property and within 75 feet of any building.

The proposed ordinance requires a permit to sell fireworks and lists penalties for unpermitted sales.

ahannon@sunjournal.com

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