New Year’s Eve: Maryland Laws Keep Fireworks on a Short Fuse

Fireworks may be part of holiday traditions in many states, but in Maryland, the rules are strict and often misunderstood. For most residents, lighting fireworks at home — even on New Year’s Eve or July Fourth — is illegal.

Most Fireworks Are Illegal Statewide

Maryland law bans the possession, sale, and use of most consumer fireworks. That includes anything that explodes, launches into the air, or moves across the ground.

Illegal fireworks include:

• Firecrackers
• Bottle rockets
• Roman candles
• Sky rockets
• Missiles
• Mortars
• Aerial shells
• Reloadable fireworks

Using or even possessing these fireworks without a permit is a violation of state law.

What Is Allowed Under State Law

Maryland only permits a very narrow category of novelty items. These are not considered fireworks under state law and include:

• Gold-label sparklers that do not contain chlorates or perchlorates
• Party poppers
• Snappers
• Snakes
• Toy caps and cap guns

Anything that produces an explosion, launches into the air, or shoots a projectile does not fall into this category and is illegal.

Local Laws Can Be Even Stricter

Even items that are allowed under state law may still be illegal where you live.

Many jurisdictions — including Baltimore City, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Howard County, Harford County, and Ocean City — prohibit all fireworks and novelty devices, including ground-based sparklers.

Local governments are allowed to adopt stricter rules than the state, and many have done so through local ordinances.

Residents should check with their county or city government before purchasing or using any fireworks or novelty items.

Permits Are Required for Fireworks Displays

Any fireworks display that goes beyond novelty items requires a permit from the Maryland State Fire Marshal. These permits are typically issued for organized public displays and require:

• A licensed fireworks operator
• Insurance coverage
• Fire safety planning and approval

Permits are not intended for backyard or neighborhood use.

Penalties Can Be Costly

Violating Maryland’s fireworks laws can result in:

• Fines
• Confiscation of fireworks
• Criminal charges in some cases

Penalties vary by jurisdiction, but enforcement increases around major holidays.

Bottom Line

In Maryland, fireworks are the exception — not the rule. Unless you are using very limited novelty items in a jurisdiction that allows them, private fireworks use is illegal. When in doubt, skip the fireworks and attend a permitted public display instead.

Residents should always check local ordinances before planning any celebration involving fireworks.