Where to Buy Fireworks and Legalities of Setting Them Off in Your Area
If you’re looking for an exciting way to end the night at your July 4th celebration, you may be interested in fireworks. Of course, different states have different rules for fireworks, whether it pertains to setting them off or buying them or both.
In Delaware, sparklers and non-explosive, non-airborne novelty items are permitted, on certain days of the year, including July 4th and December 31st. Sales are limited to the 30 days preceding their allowed use. It is best practice to buy in Delaware, and also use up your whole supply on July 4th. All displays must be ground based according to Delaware law. Penalties for the misuse of fireworks or possession of illegal fireworks are misdemeanors subject to a fine. Damage or injuries caused by the use of fireworks can result in felony charges. Fireworks for sale in Delaware can be found at pop up shops within the 30 days preceding the celebration date.
In Pennsylvania, the biggest illegality when it comes to fireworks are the purchase of “display fireworks” — the really big, showy stuff — as a retail consumer. These fireworks require special permits and are intended for use by professional pyrotechnicians. Philadelphia laws also differ from outside of the city. Setting off consumer fireworks illegally is a summary offense, and can mean a fine of up to $100. Illegal fireworks use in the city could lead to a “plethora of charges.” Consumer fireworks are allowed for purchase. These contain up to 50 mg of explosive material and are typically firecrackers, roman candles, and bottle rockets. Pennsylvania has many fireworks stores to purchase consumer fireworks.
In Maryland, fireworks are mostly enjoyed at a public display rather than in private due to their laws. The use of fireworks is illegal in Maryland, unless they are part of a public display for which the State Fire Marshal has granted a permit. If you are setting them off in private, you must also have a permit. Only gold-labeled sparklers, novelty items — such as party poppers, snap pops, and snakes — and ground-based sparkler devices are allowed in Maryland, says the state fire marshal’s office.
In New Jersey, the current law restricts the use of aerial fireworks. However, ground-based, non-aerial sparkling devices and novelties are permitted. There are stores in New Jersey for purchasing various fireworks.
Transporting fireworks from one state to another can also be a problem. Federal law prohibits the transportation of fireworks into a state where state law prohibits those fireworks. Depending on your state’s laws, police may ticket or arrest you for crossing state lines with fireworks.
