Enjoy the show this 4th of July by obeying local fireworks laws and following these safety tips:
Maryland
In Maryland, most fireworks — including bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, fire balloons, and signal lights — are illegal. Only gold-labeled sparklers, novelty items — such as party poppers, snap pops, and snakes — and ground-based sparkler devices are allowed in Maryland.
All fireworks are illegal in Baltimore City, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, and ground based sparklers are prohibited in Ocean City, Harford and Howard counties.
List of Professional Fireworks Displays around Delmarva this Fourth of July
Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Fireworks Guide
Delaware
In Delaware, sparklers, ground-based displays and certain non-airborne, nonexplosive novelty items are allowed to be sold and used.
- Sparklers and ground based items may be purchased by someone that is 18+ years old and sold in Delaware only on these dates: June 4th – July 4th, and December 1st – January 1st.
- Sparklers and ground based items may ONLY be used in Delaware on July 4th, December 31st and January 1st.
Razzle Dazzlers, Proud Eagles and Patriot Paks are permitted, while aerials like bottle rockets and Roman candles are illegal.
Delaware Firework Health and Safety Code
List of Professional Fireworks Displays around Delaware this Fourth of July
Firework Safety Recommendations
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and warnings.
- Do not try to make your own fireworks; use only those that are commercially manufactured.
- Only light fireworks outside in an open space.
- Keep ignition sources away from children.
- Never light fireworks in your hand or throw fireworks.
- Obey local ordinances regarding private fireworks usage.
- Have a bucket of water handy in case of emergencies.
- If a firework does not go off, do not try to relight it. Instead, wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Never light a firework in a glass or metal container.
- Do not drink alcohol while lighting fireworks—they can pose burning hazards if you are not careful.
Protecting Your Pets
Like thunderstorms or the vacuum, fireworks may frighten your pets. To protect your pets from becoming stressed as a result of loud noises from fireworks:
- Keep pets indoors, away from loud noises and in a place that is comfortable to them.
- Allow pets to go to the bathroom before beginning your fireworks show to prevent accidents.
Sparkler Safety
The temperature of a sparkler can reach 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent burn injuries:
- Exercise extreme caution when lighting and holding sparklers.
- Do not wear loose clothing.
- Monitor your children closely while celebrating. Those who are younger than 12 years old should not hold sparklers and should remain as spectators only.
Our Best Recommendation for a Safe Holiday
Please leave fireworks in the hands of professionals by attending a professional fireworks show in lieu of creating your own show. The public displays are conducted by licensed professionals and the firework sites are inspected and receive approval prior to the events.
We hope you and your family have a wonderful (and safe) Fourth of July!
