NEWPORT, Maine — An ordinance to ban the use of fireworks in Newport was overwhelmingly denied by voters on Tuesday.

Newport residents voted 996-604 against a measure that would ban the use of fireworks in town.

In August, noise complaints and concerns about safety prompted several residents to voice their concerns at a Newport Board of Selectmen meeting. Town Manager James Ricker said he received 47 signatures from residents who wanted a ban on fireworks use in town.

A month later, the board voted to place the issue on the ballot.