Fireworks Regulations in Your State

November 08, 2009

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Fireworks Regulations in Your State

by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.
reviewed by Kathryn Clark, M.D., F.A.A.P.

When it comes to the use of fireworks, you need to consider not only the potential safety risks posed by fireworks, but also your state's legal limitations. Federal regulations issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) simply prohibit the use of any firecrackers containing more than 50 milligrams of explosive material; chances are, however, that your local area has more specific laws regarding their use. Just because specific fireworks are legal does not mean that they are safe.

Be aware that even in states where consumer fireworks are permitted, local ordinances may further restrict their sale or use. You can check with your local police department about local ordinances. The following is the CPSC's summary of state regulations as of May 1, 1999.

States that allow some or all types of consumer fireworks (formerly know as Class C fireworks), approved by enforcing authority, or as specified in law (34 states including the District of Columbia): Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

States having no fireworks laws except at county level: Nevada (CPSC regulations are still applicable for this state)

States that allow only sparklers and/or other novelties (total of 6 states): Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania

States that ban all consumer fireworks, including those which are allowed by CPSC regulations (total of 10 states): Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont


RELATED INFORMATION

			Preventing Fireworks-Related Injuries
			Safety: Outdoors

Created June 06, 2001
Reviewed June 15, 2001

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