What You Need to Know About FIREWORKS
As you prepare to celebrate Independence Day with family picnics, outings to the beach and neighborhood barbecues, take steps to prevent these festivities from turning into tragedies. Each Fourth of July, hundreds of children are permanently disfigured due to burns by fireworks.- Each year, fireworks in the United States cause approximately twelve deaths, 2000 serious eye injuries, and 5000 other injuries (including amputated fingers).
- Although many people mistakenly believe that sparklers are safe, sparklers burn at 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (nearly hot enough to melt gold)!
- In Montgomery County, All fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge.
It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.
In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.
- Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?
- No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.
- Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?
- No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.
- Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?
- No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.
- Where do I report violations involving fireworks?
- Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.
- Where can I go to see the fireworks on July 4th?
- Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations.
- How many fires are caused by fireworks?
- Fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in 2018. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in 2018, including 1,900 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 17,100 outside and other fires.
