The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a public display. These events are conducted by licensed professionals, and the display sites are inspected and approved before the show begins. For a listing of regional Fourth of July fireworks and festivities, click here.
If you choose to celebrate with legal consumer fireworks at home, Be Sure to follow all state and local laws, use only legal fireworks, and carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Maryland Fireworks Laws
In Maryland, the use of fireworks is generally prohibited unless they are part of a public display that has been permitted by the Maryland State Fire Marshal.
Private fireworks displays at your home are not permitted. All fireworks displays, regardless of location, require the appropriate permits and insurance.
While most consumer fireworks are illegal, Maryland law allows certain novelty items that are not classified as fireworks, including:
- Toy pistols, toy canes, toy guns, and similar devices that use paper caps and are designed so a user’s hand cannot come into contact with the cap during use.
- Hand-held sparklers that do not contain chlorates or perchlorates (often referred to as “gold label” sparklers).
- Ground-based sparkling devices that are non-aerial and non-explosive. These stationary devices emit showers of sparks but do not explode, launch projectiles, or move along the ground.
- Paper-wrapped snappers containing less than 0.03 grains of explosive composition.
- Ash-producing novelty items commonly known as “snakes.”
Keep in mind that some Maryland jurisdictions have additional restrictions. Consumer fireworks are prohibited in Baltimore City, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and the Town of Ocean City. Because local ordinances may change, it’s always a good idea to check with your local fire marshal or municipal government before purchasing or using any fireworks.
Check in with the Ocean City Office of the Fire Marshal here.
Check in with the Salisbury Fire Department here.
Check in with the Maryland State Fire Marshal office here.
Delaware Fireworks Laws
Delaware prohibits most consumer fireworks, including aerial fireworks such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, firecrackers, mortars, and other explosive devices.
However, Delaware does permit certain non-airborne, non-explosive novelty fireworks, including hand-held sparklers and ground-based fountains.
These items may be:
- Purchased by individuals 18 years of age or older
- Sold only during the designated sales periods:
- June 4 – July 4
- December 1 – January 1
- Used only on:
- July 4
- December 31
- January 1
- The third day of Diwali
Always check with the Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal for the most current regulations before purchasing or using fireworks.
Fireworks Safety Tips
Whether you’re celebrating in Maryland or Delaware, a few simple precautions can help keep everyone safe.
- Use only legal fireworks.
- Use fireworks only where they are permitted.
- Check local laws and restrictions before celebrating.
- Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Only responsible adults should handle and ignite fireworks.
- Never allow children to light fireworks or sparklers without close adult supervision.
- Use fireworks outdoors in an open area, away from homes, dry grass, trees, and vehicles.
- Keep a garden hose or several buckets of water nearby.
- Light only one firework at a time, then move quickly to a safe distance.
- Never hold a lit firework in your hand or aim fireworks at another person.
- Never throw fireworks.
- Keep children and pets safely indoors or well away from the display.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- If a firework fails to ignite, do not try to relight it. Wait at least 15–20 minutes, then soak it thoroughly in water before disposing of it.
- Soak all used fireworks in water before placing them in the trash.
- Clean up all fireworks debris after your celebration.
- Keep a charged cell phone nearby in case of an emergency.
Celebrate Responsibly
Fireworks are a cherished Fourth of July tradition, but they can also cause serious injuries, fires, and costly property damage. Even legal fireworks should be handled with care and respect.
A little preparation goes a long way toward protecting your family, your neighbors, and your home—so you can focus on enjoying a safe and memorable long weekend!
From all of us at Deeley Insurance Group, we wish you a happy, safe, and enjoyable Fourth of July!
