Nick Markowitz's Fire & Electrical Safety Section

By Nick Markowitz

Fireworks laws understandably vary from state to state. Most types of fireworks are illegal in Pennsylvania, except for sparklers, snappers, poppers, smoke bombs and toy pistol caps. In some areas of Pennsylvania, no fireworks are permitted at all. Monroeville, Pa., for example, will not allow even professionally-displayed and licensed fireworks shows.

Pittsburgh does allow toy pistol caps and professional shows; however, everyone has a friend of a friend who on occasion has traveled to Ohio or West Virginia where they purchased fireworks from a wholesaler. All that they have to do is sign a form promising to remove them from the state within 24 hours and to use them elsewhere. Many state police agencies are well aware of these practices and taskforces have been set up to control this practice.

Be aware that even though your state may allow the use of fireworks, it may not apply to everywhere in the state, as in the case of Louisiana and its parishes (counties). In some cases, you may be required to get a special permit and meet other requirements if you intend to set up your own back yard display.

Here is a list of states that severely restrict the use of fireworks:

• Pennsylvania
• Ohio
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Indiana
• New York
• New Jersey
• Georgia
• Alaska
• Hawaii
• and others

Remember to have fun, but play it safe when it comes to fireworks.

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