Syracuse City Council Discusses Proposed Pyrotechnic Fee Amendments on December 19, 2025

The Syracuse City Council met on December 19, 2025, to discuss a proposed amendment to Chapter 5 of the Revised General Ordinances, which would establish a new article governing pyrotechnics, fireworks, and flame effect displays. The meeting focused on the need to update the current $25 per event fee, which only recovers 8% of the fire department's overtime costs. Fire department officials presented a tiered fee structure to recover actual costs, while council members debated the impact on community events and for-profit entities.

Discussion Items

• Current Fee Inadequacy: Fire Chief Mondanese and Executive Deputy Chief Elton Davis detailed that the current $25 fee does not cover costs. In 2023, the city issued 44 permits, collected $1,100 in revenue, but spent $13,500 in overtime (8% recovery). In 2024, 66 permits were issued, revenue was $1,650, and overtime costs rose to $21,000 (again 8% recovery). Overtime hours increased 41% from 208 to 293, and costs rose 50% from 2023 to 2024.
• Proposed Fee Structure: Three tiers: (1) $75 for low-risk setup-only events (e.g., cold sparklers at weddings); (2) $300 for indoor/outdoor pyrotechnic events (e.g., large fireworks displays) covering up to 4 hours of standby; and (3) actual cost invoicing for extended standby or additional personnel. The $300 fee aligns with the actual cost of one firefighter for four hours ($299.12) and is comparable to Binghamton ($286) and Rochester ($294).
• Enforcement: A double fee provision for unpermitted displays was introduced to discourage fly-by-night operators. Chief Davis noted that some events occur without permits, creating safety risks because fire alarms may be disabled.
• Community Impact: Councilors raised concerns about potential deterrents to community events. Councilor Paniago asked about cancellations; Chief Davis stated that most cancellations result in rescheduling, not refunds. Councilor Hogan (referred to as "OG") argued that the Syracuse Mets, a for-profit entity owned by Diamond Baseball Holdings, should pay full costs, and noted that the city only recoups $6,700 more under the new fee but the Mets generate significant economic impact. The fire chief emphasized that the department's budget is for life safety, not subsidizing private events.
• Application to Venues: The proposal applies to venues like the Landmark Theatre, JMA Wireless Dome, War Memorial, NBT Stadium, and others. The Landmark Theatre, due to lack of fire detection, requires a pyrotechnic permit for any flame effects. The Westcott Theater was mentioned as an ongoing enforcement issue.

Key Outcomes

• No formal vote was taken; the discussion was informational. The legislation is expected to be considered for passage and could take effect January 1, 2026. The council indicated a need to review all city fee structures. The meeting was adjourned without action.