July 4 is almost here! If you are planning on launching fireworks as part of your celebration, there are some new changes to Pennsylvania law. In October of 2017, the fireworks law was modified in Pennsylvania, making it legal for state residents to purchase and use “Class C” fireworks.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police website, Class C Fireworks include:
- Firecrackers
- Roman Candles
- Bottle Rockets
- Any other fireworks that contain a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material.
There are some restrictions to the launch of fireworks. Only professionals with a permit can launch “display fireworks.” According to the Pennsylvania State Police, display fireworks are “classified as including salutes that contain more than 130 milligrams of explosive material, and professional grade aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic compositions.” Other devices, such as M-80s, M-100s, cherry bombs, or quarter and half-sticks are still illegal under federal law and cannot be used by state residents.
When making your July 4 fireworks preparations, don’t forget to check and comply with local ordinances. Many local ordinances strictly regulate the display of fireworks. In some areas, ordinances ban the launch of fireworks in residential areas. If your town bans its residents from launching fireworks, don’t ignore the law. Consider taking your family to a local professional fireworks show instead.
Sources:
https://www.psp.pa.gov/public-safety/Pages/fireworks-safety.aspx