Are Fireworks Legal In Maryland? Here’s What You Need to Know

CALIFORNIA, Md. — The Fourth of July is on the horizon, and Americans everywhere are preparing to break out the fireworks for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. If you want to create a dazzling display, then you’ll first need to study up on the legality of different types of fireworks and sparklers in Maryland. The Old Line State is notoriously strict about the use of personal fireworks, so here’s everything you need to know about creating a colorful light show over the holiday weekend.

Are Personal Fireworks Legal In Maryland?

Maryland is one of the strictest states in the country for fireworks use. Explosive and airborne fireworks are illegal for personal use statewide. Luckily, state policy does allow residents to buy and use novelty items like snap-pops and gold-labeled sparklers. Ground-based sparkling devices that are nonexplosive, like fountains, are also legal under state law.

Maryland law dictates that residents who possess or fire off illegal fireworks may be subject to a misdemeanor charge and a $250 fine per offense. Local law in Prince George’s County has even stricter penalties, including a $1,000 fine and a maximum penalty of six months in jail.

Some parts of Maryland, including Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and Baltimore, completely ban all firework-like devices, even prohibiting the use of sparklers. The use of ground-based sparklers specifically is banned in Harford County, Howard County and Ocean City.

Organizations aiming to put on a fireworks show for a larger audience can apply on firemarshal.maryland.gov, but individual residents aren’t usually granted access to these permits. Furthermore, permits need to be filed at least 10 days before the actual display takes place, so you can’t get one right before a holiday.

Note: Buying fireworks in states where they are legal does not make them legal to possess or use within Maryland.

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