Photo by Ronnie R

Photo by Ronnie R

Update: And here’s a map of every fireworks stand in D.C., courtesy of the DCRA.

DC FireWorks Sales Locations 02

Original post

It’s almost America’s birthday again, which means it’s almost time to drink on a roof and light shit on fire…in the name of freedom!

As is customary for Fourth of July celebrations, many of you will be setting off fireworks somewhere in the District, but be forewarned: setting off the wrong kind of firework could land you with a hefty fine (up to $2,000) and/or an arrest and further prosecution. So, consider this a primer on D.C.’s firework laws, just so you know what is and isn’t allowed in D.C., per the Metropolitan Police Department. Because nothing could can ruin an Independence Day celebration more than being arrested for over-celebrating.

Here’s What’s Illegal:

  • Firecrackers of any kind or description.
  • Any firework that explodes, such as cherry bombs, salutes, Roman candles, floral shells, artillery shells.
  • Any firework intended to move after the piece is placed and fired; such as bottle rockets, parachutes, buzzbombs, pinwheels, helicopters, jumping jacks.
  • Sparklers more than 20 inches (50mm) in length.
  • Any firework that contains mercury, arsenic, tetryl, phosphorous, sulphocyanide, magnesium, potassium picrate, gallic acid, chlorate of potash, and sugar, or any highly oxidizing agent.
  • Any firework having a side fuse, or a fuse inserted at any point along the length of the firework.
  • Any firework found by the code official to be dangerous to the safety of persons or property.

Here’s What’s Allowed

  • Any firework specifically excepted in this article.
  • Toy paper caps containing not more than twenty-five hundredths (0.25) of a grain of explosive composition per cap.
  • Sparklers not more than 20 inches (50mm) in length.
  • Torches, cones.
  • Box fires, fountains.
  • Dip-sticks, non-poisonous snakes.
  • Paper novelty items, colored lights.

Per usual, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs made permit applications available for people to set up fireworks stands in the District. Last year, the DCRA licensed 47 vendors throughout the city to sell fireworks. The DCRA hasn’t yet posted their annual map of fireworks vendors in D.C., so in the meantime, please enjoy this relevant Bruce Springsteen song. America!

Filed Under: fireworks, fireworks d.c., fourth of july, independence day, july 4,