The Fourth of July is a day of celebration, vacation, patriotism and of course fireworks. But before you start setting off some displays in your backyard, make sure you know the firework laws and regulations in Phoenix.
The logistics
Firework laws can be tricky since they vary by state and sometimes by city making it a little more confusing.
Arizona allowed for the purchase of consumer fireworks back in December 2010. Residents are now able to purchase “safe and sane” fireworks that were once illegal without a permit as long as they are at or above the age of 16.
These may include non-aerial and novelty items. Consumer fireworks such as bottle rockets, skyrockets, missile-type rockets, helicopters, torpedoes, roman candles, firecrackers, aerial shells and mortars are still prohibited unless you have a permit.
It’s also important to remember that to buy does not mean to use. In Arizona, while it is legal to purchase consumer fireworks like the kind that shoot from the ground, it is not legal to use them in every city.
While the state regulates firework sales, the law also says that individual cities can regulate the use of the fireworks.
In Phoenix, it is legal to set off novelty fireworks such as sparklers, smoke bombs, ground spinners, party poppers, caps, glow worms and other small fireworks. But, it's a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to $2,500 and/or six months in jail for using any aerial fireworks.
www.az-fireworks.com.
Where to buy
With the Fourth of July getting closer and closer, fireworks are popping up in most shopping centers, grocery stores and independent sellers.
Some of the top sellers include:
Costco
Fry’s
Safeway
Target
Walgreens
Walmart
But remember, you must be at least 16 years old to purchase consumer fireworks and if anyone is distributing aerial products like rockets and roman candles, steer clear! They are not legally selling them.
Safety tips
One of the most important things to remember when setting of any kind of fireworks is to be safe and carefully because accidents can happen with even the tiniest of mistakes.
1. Only set fireworks off outdoors.
2. Follow the directions on the fireworks packages; they’re there for a reason. Do not attempt to alter or use them in any other way but as instructed.
3. Do not set off homemade fireworks; they are unpredictable and can be very dangerous.
4. Remember to keep a safe distance from any fireworks you’ve set off to avoid any injury.
5. Obey the fireworks laws for you city!
For more specific safety tips and regulations, visit www.fireworksafety.com.
