This content is unavailable. Please contact customer service for more information.
Already a subscriber? Login or Activate your account.
You've reached the end of the standard E-Edition.
This content is unavailable. Please contact customer service for more information.
Fireworks for the Fourth?
Here's what you should know before you set them off at home
USA TODAY NETWORK
People watch fireworks along the Cape Fear river at the
Battleship North Carolina and downtown Wilmington for a night of
fireworks in celebration of the Fourth of July.
PHOTOS BY USA TODAY NETWORK
People watch fireworks near the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Gazebo
in 2019 as part of Boardwalk Blast.
The Fourth of July is almost upon us. America's Independence Day, a federal holiday, is associated with barbecues, gatherings, patriotism and, of course, fireworks.
Multiple fireworks shows are planned throughout the region. But what if you wanted to set off some fireworks yourself?
There's no doubt that you'll hear fireworks popping all over the area during the Fourth of July. But just because it happens doesn't mean it's legal.
North Carolina law prohibits the sale and use of fireworks in the state except under very specific provisions. So if you have some explosive ideas this July 4th, here's what you might want to know.
Is it legal to set off fireworks in North Carolina?
Per state law, fireworks are classified as pyrotechnics, and it is generally illegal for either individuals or corporations to set them off — unless some specific criteria are met.
In order to be allowed to set off fireworks, it has to be for a public display or concert and must have approval from the local county or city government. Additionally, a trained and licensed operator must be in charge, meaning you're not going to be allowed to set any fireworks off in your backyard.
Are sparklers, bottle rockets and Roman candles allowed?
North Carolina law does have some provisions for legal fireworks. Wire sparklers and glow worms are notable exceptions to the ban.
However, anything that can shoot into the air and explode, including bottle rockets and Roman candles, is prohibited.
What is the penalty for using fireworks?
N.C. legislation says that violating the fireworks laws can result in a Class 2 misdemeanor and be upgraded to Class 1 if the fireworks were used indoors.
What if you bring fireworks from another state?
If you cross the state line into South Carolina, you'll quickly discover a number of fireworks stores along the border. South Carolina has much less stringent regulations when it comes to fireworks.
However, even if you buy your fireworks legally in South Carolina or another state, you can't set them off in North Carolina without being in violation of the law.
Click and hold your mouse button on the page to select the area you wish to save or print.
You can click and drag the clipping box to move it or click and drag in the bottom right corner to resize it.
When you're happy with your selection, click the checkmark icon next to the clipping area to continue.
