Backyard Fireworks Are Illegal In Maryland;
Attend a Legal, Public Display

Towson, Md. (June 17, 2008) — As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, Baltimore County fire officials remind residents that backyard fireworks are illegal in Maryland.

Some ground-based and hand-held sparklers are legal in certain counties, including Baltimore County. A legal ground-based sparkler is a stationary device that emits a shower of sparks. Anything that explodes, detonates, launches a projectile or moves along the ground under its power is illegal. (The state Fire Marshal provides a listing of all legal sparkling devices.)

Schedule of Public Fireworks Displays

Fire officials strongly encourage residents to enjoy fireworks by attending a legal, public display. A schedule of all fireworks displays approved by the Baltimore County Fire Department is available online at www.baltimorecountymd.gov/go/fireworks. Displays are publicized as local fire marshals approve the permits; continue checking the site through the holiday for the most current information.

Reporting Illegal Fireworks

The illegal use of fireworks is a problem that began growing a few years ago, when state legislators legalized certain ground-based sparklers. These sparklers commonly are marketed as fireworks, promoting the false notion that all fireworks are legal.

Also, the commonwealth of Pennsylvania allows the legal sale of fireworks to Maryland residents; a growing number of Marylanders buy fireworks in Pennsylvania and bring them across the state line. This is illegal. Violators of the prohibition against backyard fireworks are subject to a misdemeanor fine of up to $250, regardless of whether they purchased the fireworks legally in another state.

Call your local police precinct to report suspected illegal fireworks use; call 911 to report an emergency involving fireworks.