Skip Navigation
Baltimore County, Maryland
Learn more about single stream recycling collection.
Welcome to the Fire Department

Safe Use of Fireworks

Fireworks are synonymous with the Fourth of July holiday and other summer celebrations, but these devices are as dangerous as they are beautiful to watch. Fireworks burn up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and can cause burns, lacerations, amputations and blindness. Fireworks should only be handled by professionals.

Watch Video

Laws Governing Fireworks

With a few exceptions, the use of fireworks is illegal in Maryland, unless they are part of a public display for which the State Fire Marshal has granted a permit. A list of legal, public displays in Baltimore County is available online. Violators who possess or discharge illegal fireworks are subject to a misdemeanor fine of up to $250.

The Baltimore County Fire Department and the Maryland State Fire Marshal offer these guidelines:

Local laws about the use of hand-held and ground-based sparklers vary throughout Maryland. For information about what is allowed in neighboring jurisdictions, contact the Fire Marshal's office in that jurisdiction.

For complete information about state fireworks regulations, visit the State Fire Marshal .

The National Fire Protection Association provides more detailed information on fireworks safety.

Revised June 19, 2009


" "
HomeAgenciesDirectoryMeetings/EventsNewsContact UsJobs
400 Washington Avenue  Courthouse  Towson, MD 21204 
User Terms | PrivacyContact Webmaster | Translate | Subscribe