Pennsylvania is reminding residents to follow state fireworks laws and safety guidelines ahead of Fourth of July celebrations. Video above: Long’s Park fireworks return with cannons for Independence DayAs communities prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary, officials warn that improper use of fireworks can lead to serious injuries, fires and property damage. Who can buy fireworks? Under Pennsylvania law, you must be 18 or older to purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks. Residents may buy and use Class C, or consumer-grade, fireworks, including: Firecrackers Roman candles Bottle rockets Similar fireworks containing no more than 50 milligrams of explosive material The state notes that ground and hand-held sparkling devices, novelties and toy caps are permitted throughout Pennsylvania. What is not allowed? According to state law, consumer fireworks cannot be used: Within 150 feet of a building or vehicle On public or private property without express permission from the property owner While under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug In a way that endangers people, pets or property Directed at another person From or at a building or vehicle Professional fireworks require permitsPennsylvania distinguishes consumer fireworks from display fireworks, which may only be used by professionals with a municipal permit.Display fireworks include:Salutes containing more than two grains or 130 milligrams of explosive materialProfessional-grade aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic compositionTime restrictionsState law allows municipalities to restrict the use of consumer fireworks between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m., with exceptions: Until 1 a.m. on July 2, 3, 4 and Dec. 31 If July 4 falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, until 1 a.m. on the immediately preceding and following Friday and Saturday Officials advised residents to check with their local municipality for any additional ordinances.Where can fireworks be purchased? Pennsylvania residents 18 and older may purchase consumer fireworks from a licensed, stand-alone permanent structure approved by the Department of Agriculture.Consumer fireworks may also be bought online or by mail order, but delivery to the purchaser must occur at a licensed permanent structure. Public safety reminderThe New Cumberland Borough Police Department urged residents to celebrate responsibly and be mindful of veterans, pets, children and others who may be sensitive to loud noises. “Celebrate responsibly and have a safe holiday season,” the police department said.
Pennsylvania is reminding residents to follow state fireworks laws and safety guidelines ahead of Fourth of July celebrations.
Video above: Long’s Park fireworks return with cannons for Independence Day
As communities prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary, officials warn that improper use of fireworks can lead to serious injuries, fires and property damage.
Who can buy fireworks?
Under Pennsylvania law, you must be 18 or older to purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks.
Residents may buy and use Class C, or consumer-grade, fireworks, including:
Firecrackers Roman candles Bottle rockets Similar fireworks containing no more than 50 milligrams of explosive material
The state notes that ground and hand-held sparkling devices, novelties and toy caps are permitted throughout Pennsylvania.
What is not allowed?
According to state law, consumer fireworks cannot be used:
Within 150 feet of a building or vehicle On public or private property without express permission from the property owner While under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug In a way that endangers people, pets or property Directed at another person From or at a building or vehicle Professional fireworks require permits
Pennsylvania distinguishes consumer fireworks from display fireworks, which may only be used by professionals with a municipal permit.
Display fireworks include:
Salutes containing more than two grains or 130 milligrams of explosive materialProfessional-grade aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic composition
Time restrictions
State law allows municipalities to restrict the use of consumer fireworks between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m., with exceptions:
Until 1 a.m. on July 2, 3, 4 and Dec. 31 If July 4 falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, until 1 a.m. on the immediately preceding and following Friday and Saturday
Officials advised residents to check with their local municipality for any additional ordinances.
Where can fireworks be purchased?
Pennsylvania residents 18 and older may purchase consumer fireworks from a licensed, stand-alone permanent structure approved by the Department of Agriculture.
Consumer fireworks may also be bought online or by mail order, but delivery to the purchaser must occur at a licensed permanent structure.
Public safety reminder
The New Cumberland Borough Police Department urged residents to celebrate responsibly and be mindful of veterans, pets, children and others who may be sensitive to loud noises.
“Celebrate responsibly and have a safe holiday season,” the police department said.