Tauranga residents are being asked to weigh in on proposed rule changes affecting fireworks use and real estate signage in public places.

Tauranga City Council has opened consultation on amendments to its Street Use and Public Places Bylaw 2026, with feedback invited until Friday, July 17.

A key proposal would prohibit the use of fireworks in public places unless prior council approval is granted, the council said in a media statement.

The restriction would apply to parks and reserves, beaches and dunes, roads, berms, footpaths and other council-owned or managed spaces.

The change would not apply to private property, and organised public displays could still go ahead with council approval.

The council said the proposal responds to community concerns around public safety risks, fire hazards, impacts on animals, and potential damage to public spaces and the environment.

Mayor Mahé Drysdale said public feedback would play an important role in shaping the final decision.

“We’ve heard a range of views about how fireworks are used in public places and the impacts this can have,” Drysdale said.

“While this proposal would not address fireworks use on private property, it is an opportunity to consider how we manage activity in public spaces. We encourage people to share their views to help inform our decision-making.”

The council was also seeking feedback on rules governing real estate signs in public places.

Existing bylaw provisions limit signs to a maximum size of 1200mm high by 800mm wide, but the council was now considering increasing that size to better align with standard industry formats.

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale. Photo / Ayla Yeoman

Drysdale said the proposed review followed feedback from the real estate sector.

“We heard from sign manufacturers and real estate agents about the impact the new rules could have on ratepayers selling their biggest asset and have decided to reconsult on a suggestion that would work better for the real estate industry,” he said.

Members of the public can make submissions on one or both proposals through the Let’s Talk Tauranga online platform or by completing a printed form at council library community hubs.