Community Corner

Can I Buy Fireworks in Narberth or Bala Cynwyd?

If you have any questions about buying fireworks, the State Police might have the answer.

The following information comes courtesy of Pennsylvania State Police.

Due to the upcoming July 4th holiday and summer season, here are some FAQs regarding fireworks.

Q: Can I use fireworks in Pennsylvania?

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A: State law prohibits the use of Consumer and Display Fireworks in Pennsylvania without a permit.

Items defined as “ground and hand-held sparkling devices”, “novelties” and “toy caps” in American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) Standard 87-1 are not currently regulated by State Law; therefore, their sale and use are permissible.

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These “non-fireworks” are the only types allowed to be sold from tents, stands, convenience stores, retail establishments and other various outlets not licensed by the Department of Agriculture.

Q: Can I buy regular fireworks – not sparklers or novelty items -- under any conditions?

A: This answer depends on whether or not you are a Pennsylvania resident.
 
Pennsylvania residents:  May purchase Consumer Fireworks only with a display permit issued by the municipality wherein the display will take place.
 
Non-residents:  An amendment to the Fireworks Law makes it legal, upon proof of out-of-state residency status, to purchase Consumer Fireworks from a licensed facility.


Q: How do I get a permit for a fireworks display?

A: The Commonwealth does not issue permits for firework displays and does not oversee the issuance of permits by the municipalities.

A permit for a fireworks display must be obtained from the municipality where the display will take place.  The municipality is the only governing body with authority to issue this permit under reasonable rules and regulations adopted by them.

If you are hiring someone to perform the display, that person or corporation must be registered with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.  If you are not hiring someone, you can attempt to obtain the status of “competent operator” from the municipality where the display will take place.

Q: Who enforces the Fireworks Law?

A: Any Law Enforcement Officer having jurisdiction may make an arrest and confiscate fireworks under the Fireworks Law.  To report a violation of the Fireworks Law contact the Police Department servicing your area as would to report any other crime.


Q: What precautions should people take when using permitted novelty items or sparklers?

A: It’s best to leave any type of fireworks to the experts.  But if you decide to use permitted novelty items or sparklers:

  •  Always read and follow the instructions carefully.
  •   Use items outside in an open area.
  •   A responsible adult should supervise all activities.
  •   Only light one item at a time.
  •   Place used items in a bucket of water prior to properly disposing of them.

 
Q: What else should I know about fireworks?

A: Cherry bombs, M-80s, M-100s, silver salutes and other illegal fireworks are all extremely dangerous. In addition, fireworks constructed from mail order kits are illegal and dangerous to assemble or use. Never attempt to make your own fireworks or tamper with fireworks.


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