PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Editor's note: The attached video is from a June 2022 broadcast.
Memorial Day is on May 27 and Pennsylvanians all across the state are getting their grills ready in anticipation.
However, before residents light up their colorful explosives, officials recommend they get reacquainted with the recently updated fireworks laws in Pa.
Currently, anyone over the age of 18 is permitted to purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks; consumer fireworks do not include "ground and hand-held sparkling devices", "novelties" and "toy caps."
Consumers can purchase and use "Class C", or consumer-grade, fireworks, which include firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets and similar fireworks that contain a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material.
Additional restrictions on fireworks usage include:
- They cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner.
- They cannot be discharged from within a motor vehicle or building.
- They cannot be discharged toward a motor vehicle or building.
- They cannot be discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure, whether or not a person is actually present.
- They cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug.
- Municipalities may restrict the use of consumer fireworks between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. except:
- July 2, 3, 4 and Dec. 31, when they may be used until 1 a.m.
Officials urge residents to check with their local municipalities for applicable local ordinances to ensure a fun- and safe- Memorial Day fireworks show.