ENSURING A SAFE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION MEANS
KNOWING THE LAW ON FIREWORKS IN DC
July 4th is traditionally a time for parades, backyard barbecues and the spectacular fireworks display on the National Mall. Unfortunately, the Independence Day holiday is also a time when serious injuries associated with illegal fireworks are all too common. Nationwide, nearly 10,000 people a year are treated in hospital emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries; more than 40 percent of the victims are ages 14 and younger. So again this year, the MPD is joining with other public safety organizations in advising the public to know the law on fireworks in DC. District law prohibits all firecrackers, as well as any fireworks that explode (including cherry bombs, salutes, Roman candles, floral shells, and artillery shells) and any fireworks that launch after being lit (such as bottle rockets, parachutes, buzz-bombs, pinwheels, helicopters, and jumping jacks). Fireworks that have a side fuse or that contain mercury, arsenic or other dangerous materials are also prohibited.
Among the fireworks that are allowed in the District are small
sparklers, fountains, torches and other novelty items.
Characteristics of Illegal Fire Works
An illegal firework as defined in Article 27 of the
DC Official Code may have any of the following traits:
»» It moves;
»» It explodes;
»» It emits a spark or flame greater than 12 feet;
»» It has a side-mounted fuse or a fuse inserted at
any point along the length of the product’s surface;
»» It contains mercury, arsenic, magnesium,
phosphorus, or any other highly-oxidizing agent;
»» The Fire Marshal considers it to be dangerous to
the safety of any person or property.
Bates Area Civic Association 