A firework display lights up the sky over the River Cam during the Trinity May Ball at Cambridge University’s Trinity College. A celebration of the end of the academic year, the first official May Ball was held in Trinity College’s grounds in 1866 with the tradition quickly spreading to the other colleges, with around 15 to 20 balls and June Events typically held each year. Picture date: Monday June 22, 2026. (Photo by Joe Giddens/PA Images via Getty Images)
Joe Giddens – PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images
Independence Day is near. How do Americans plan to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary?
Article continues below this ad
Perhaps the most popular tradition is watching fireworks explode.
Maybe you want to do more than just watch the fireworks — like set off your own. But rules vary widely by location.
Here’s what Texans should know before July Fourth.
Are fireworks legal in Texas?
Yes, fireworks are legal in Texas — but where you can buy, possess and use them depends on state law and local city and county ordinances. Many cities, including Austin, Dallas and San Antonio, prohibit consumer fireworks inside city limits.
Article continues below this ad
What fireworks are legal in Texas?
Texas only allows 1.4G fireworks, also known as consumer fireworks. Only small-scale fireworks commonly available in local retail stores — such as sparklers, smoke bombs, snappers, roman candles, parachutes, firecrackers and similar items — are permitted, provided they comply with the Consumer Product Safety Commission and U.S. Department of Transportation definitions for consumer fireworks.
Only small-scale fireworks commonly available in local retail stores — such as wedding sparklers, smoke bombs, snappers, roman candles, parachutes, firecrackers, and similar items. (Photo By David Zorrakino/Europa Press via Getty Images)
Europa Press News/Europa Press via Getty Images
Certain miniature sky rockets, also called bottle rockets, are prohibited at all times if they meet the following criteria, according to the state fire marshal’s office:
Article continues below this ad
They have less than 4 grams of propellant.
The casings have an outside diameter of less than 5/8 of an inch.
They are less than 3 1/2 inches in length.
The overall length, including the stick, is less than 15 inches.
Where are fireworks legal? County-by-county rules
Article continues below this ad
According to the Travis County website, fireworks are generally prohibited in Austin and the surrounding areas. Fireworks are not allowed in Travis County parks. Don’t use fireworks within 600 feet of churches, hospitals, child care centers, or schools (including colleges) unless you have written permission from that facility. Veterinary hospitals are the one exception, according to the Travis County website.
If you live in Tarrant County, fireworks are only allowed in unincorporated areas of Tarrant County. Sparklers are also prohibited in Fort Worth city limits. For those who plan to light fireworks, you must have a permit from the fire marshal’s office.
Article continues below this ad
In Dallas County, fireworks are prohibited within Dallas city limits. The city ban extends 5,000 feet into unincorporated areas of Dallas County. Fines can be as much as $2,000 for each offense.
According to the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, fireworks are legal in unincorporated areas of Harris County; however, they’re restricted near certain establishments, including churches, schools and hospitals.
Outdoor displays of 1.3G fireworks, or professional-grade, require a permit from the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office. The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office will conduct a site inspection and approval in accordance with the Texas Occupations Code.
Article continues below this ad
Fireworks are allowed in Bexar County’s unincorporated areas, but they’re banned within San Antonio city limits. A person can’t explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, a hospital other than a veterinary hospital, an asylum, a licensed child care center or a public or private primary or secondary school or institution of higher education unless the person receives authorization in writing from that organization.
When can you buy fireworks in Texas?
According to the Texas Association of Counties, fireworks can only be sold during the following periods for holidays:
Article continues below this ad
HolidaySales datesTexas Independence DayFeb. 25-March 1San Jacinto DayApril 16-April 21Cinco de MayoMay 1-May 5Memorial DayMay 22-May 27Independence DayJune 24-July 4DiwaliOct. 26-Nov. 1Christmas/New Year’s DayDec. 20-Jan. 1
What time can you set off fireworks in Texas?
There is no state regulation specifying how late fireworks can be set off. The Texas Occupations Code also does not mention a cutoff time for fireworks. However, check your local county and city rules if you plan on using fireworks.
How to stay safe when using fireworks
The Texas Department of Insurance provides tips on fireworks safety if you plan on using fireworks or being near them.
Article continues below this ad
Alcohol and fireworks are a bad mix.
Follow the instructions on the firework.
Avoid shooting fireworks near dry grass, brush, or other materials that can easily catch on fire.
Never aim fireworks where they could land on a house or hit a person.
Have a bucket of water, garden hose, or other water source ready for emergencies.