BELLE — As residents prepare to celebrate Independence Day, city officials are reminding the public of fireworks hours and utility task vehicle (UTV) regulations that will be in effect over the holiday weekend.

City ordinance 625.00 covers the sale and use of fireworks and states that Fireworks may be discharged on private property only during the following times: if July fourth (4th) falls on a Monday or Tuesday then they may be discharged on that day and the preceding weekend (Saturday/Sunday), if the fourth (4th) falls on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday they may only be discharged on the fourth (4th) and the following weekend. If July fourth (4th) falls on a Saturday or Sunday then they may be discharged on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

And the dates of December thirty-first (31st) to January second (2nd.) If December thirty-first (31st) falls on a Monday or Tuesday then they may be discharged on that day and the preceding weekend (Saturday/Sunday), if the thirty-first (31st) falls on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday they may only be discharged on the thirty-first (31st) and the following weekend. If December thirty-first (31st) falls on a Saturday or Sunday then they may be discharged on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The city’s noise ordinance goes into effect nightly at 10 p.m. and will be enforced outside the designated hours. Residents are asked to celebrate responsibly and remain considerate of neighbors, pets, and safety concerns.

Hours of discharge are from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.

The city is also reminding residents that utility task vehicle (UTV) use on public streets is regulated under Section 340.220 of the municipal code. To operate a UTV legally within city limits, operators must obtain a valid city permit unless the vehicle is already licensed through the Missouri Department of Revenue. Drivers must be at least 18-years-old and possess a valid driver’s license. Proof of liability insurance is also required and must be presented upon request. Additionally, UTVs must be equipped with a working headlamp and brake light, a slow-moving vehicle triangle, and a rear-mounted flag that stands at least four feet tall. Headlamps and brake lights must remain on at all times while the vehicle is in operation.

Operation is only allowed between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. UTVs may not be operated in a careless or dangerous manner, and drivers may not be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. Passengers are only permitted if the vehicle is designed for multiple occupants, and all traffic laws must be followed.

To obtain a permit, applicants must submit a written form with vehicle and owner information, provide proof of insurance, and pay a $15 annual fee unless eligible for a handicap waiver. The city marshal has the authority to revoke permits for ordinance violations.

City permits do not allow operation on state highways or outside city limits. UTV use on private property requires permission from the property owner or occupant. Altering the vehicle’s exhaust system is also prohibited under city rules.

For more information or to review the complete ordinance, contact Belle City Hall at (573) 859-3513, or visit cityofbellemo.org and look for the Ordinances link under the City Government tab.