The 4th of July holiday celebrates our nation’s independence with parades, barbecues, and fireworks lighting up the sky. It is a day for family and friends to gather, but also one where many injuries from fireworks occur.

Last year, an estimated 14,700 people were injured by fireworks. There were 11 reported fireworks-related deaths, most involving misuse and device misfire/malfunctions, and an estimated 1,700 emergency room treated injuries involving sparklers.

Fireworks Injuries & Death

Pennsylvania Firework Laws FAQ

Which fireworks are PA residents allowed to purchase and use?

Consumers can purchase and use “Class C” or “consumer-grade” fireworks such as firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets, and similar fireworks that contain a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material.

“Display fireworks” are only to be used by professionals with a permit from the municipality where the display will take place. Display fireworks include salutes that contain more than two grains or 130 milligrams of explosive materials and professional-grade aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic compositions.

Who can purchase fireworks in PA?

Anyone over the age of 18 years can purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks. Consumer fireworks do not include “ground and hand-held sparkling devices”, “novelties” and “toy caps,” which are permitted at all times throughout the Commonwealth.

What are the restrictions on the use of fireworks in PA?

  • Cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without express permission of the property owner

  • Cannot be directed at another person

  • Cannot be discharged from or directed at a building or vehicle

  • Cannot be discharged within 150 feet of a building or vehicle regardless if the building or vehicle is owned by the user of the consumer fireworks

  • Cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug

  • Municipalities may restrict use of consumer fireworks between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. except:

    • July 2, 3, 4 and Dec. 31 when they may be used until 1 a.m.
    • If July 4 falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday they may be used until 1 a.m. on the immediately preceding and following Friday and Saturday
    • Local ordinances may include additional restrictions, so always check with your municipality before purchasing or using fireworks.

  • The following may take, remove or cause to be removed all stocks of consumer or display fireworks sold, used, stored, or held in violation of this law:

    • Pennsylvania State Police
    • Act 120 Certified Municipal Police Officers
    • Sheriff or Sheriff’s Deputy
    • A member of a Pennsylvania bomb squad accredited by the FBI and certified in hazardous devices training

Where can fireworks be purchased in PA?

Persons 18 years and older can buy consumer fireworks from a stand-alone, permanent structure licensed by the Department of Agriculture. Consumer fireworks may also be purchased through online, mail-order, or other transaction, but delivery of consumer fireworks to a purchaser shall take place at a licensed, permanent structure.

Firework Offense Penalties in PA

In Pennsylvania, fireworks offenses can lead to fines and even criminal charges, depending on the type of offense and whether it’s a first or subsequent offense.

Consumer Fireworks Offenses (Using):

  • First Offense: Summary offense with a fine of up to $500.

  • Subsequent Offenses (within three years): Summary offense with a fine of up to $1,000.

Consumer Fireworks Offenses (Selling):

  • First Offense: Second-degree misdemeanor with potential fines of up to $10,000.

  • Subsequent Offenses: Second-degree misdemeanor with potential fines of up to $15,000 and license revocation, according to the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

Display Fireworks Offenses (Selling or Using):

  • First Offense: Third-degree felony with a potential fine of up to $10,000.

  • Subsequent Offenses: Third-degree felony with a potential fine of up to $15,000.

If you’ve been charged with fireworks law offenses this July 4th holiday, know that Keith J. Williams is here to provide an affordable, judgment-free legal defense.

With the right criminal defense lawyer, you may be able to keep your record clean and put it all behind you. Before pleading guilty, call Keith J. Williams for a FREE Confidential Consultation!

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