Public safety officials across the state are flooding social media to make sure that Georgia residents are informed on the state’s fireworks laws and to be sure they’re aware of how to stay safe this holiday.
Tested and regulated by the Product Safety Commission (CPSC), consumer fireworks are legal under federal law. Fireworks must meet certain criteria regarding composition, quantity and stability of pyrotechnic material to qualify as “consumer fireworks.” Any other fireworks are classified as professional (display) fireworks and require a federal license to purchase and use them.
What Fireworks Can You Buy In Georgia?
In Georgia, all fireworks classified as DOT 1.4G (consumer fireworks) are legal to purchase and use as stated in the Georgia General Assembly House Bill 727. Consumer fireworks you can legally buy in retail stores across Georgia include:
- Bottle Rockets
- Sky Rockets
- Roman Candles
- Firecrackers
- Sparklers
- Smoke and Punk
- Fountains
- Missiles
- Novelties
- Crackle and Strobe
- Parachutes
- Wheels and Spinners
- Sky Flyers
- Display Shells
- Aerial Items (Cakes)
Who Can Buy Consumer Fireworks in Georgia?
You have to be 18 years old or older to buy fireworks. While the law doesn’t stipulate an exact age for igniting them, keep in mind that the majority of injuries happen to kids under the age of 16. It is illegal to light fireworks under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
When Can You Light Fireworks in Georgia?
Fireworks were really meant to be enjoyed during the holidays — particularly the Fourth of July and New Years. Legally, you can only ignite fireworks up until a certain hour depending on the holiday. The legal time frame of when fireworks are allowed are:
- New Years: until 1 a.m.
- Fourth of July: until midnight
- Any other day: Not after 9p.m.
Where Can You Light Fireworks in Georgia?
While it may be legal to set off fireworks at your home, check to see what the laws are for your particular neighborhood. Private communities like HOAs, condos or apartment complexes may not allow fireworks at all. Others may allow only a designated spot for lighting fireworks like a parking lot, field or a pool area.
Georgia has some places where fireworks are banned. Do not light fireworks on roads or highways. It is also illegal to light fireworks within 100 yards of a:
- Hospital
- Nursing home
- Prison
- Nuclear power plant
- Gas station or refinery
According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, State Parks and Historic Sites, fireworks are strictly prohibited in state parks. Use of fireworks in other public parks is also prohibited unless you have a special license.
Keep in mind that while they may be legal, consumer fireworks are considered hazardous materials (hazmat) division 1.4G explosives. Be mindful of the laws when purchasing and lighting them off to ensure the safety of everyone.
Fireworks Facts
- A 5% sales tax on fireworks sold in Georgia goes toward the state’s trauma care network, training and equipment for Georgia firefighters.
- The younger you are, the more likely you will be injured by fireworks. The risk of injury from fireworks is highest for the 0-4 age group, followed by children 10-14 years old.
- Sparklers are deceivingly benign. They can actually burn as hot as 2,000° F and account for 79% of injuries to children under 5 years old.
- China is the largest manufacturer and exporter of fireworks in the world — supplying 90% of all fireworks.
- Residents of Beijing, China must limit their use of fireworks during the Lantern Festival (Lunar New Year) because of record air pollution.
Fireworks Safety
Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner Ralph Hudgens offers these additional tips for using fireworks safely:
- Always read and follow label directions
- Only use fireworks outdoors
- Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks
- Only light one firework at a time
- Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
- Fireworks should only be used with close adult supervision
- Never give fireworks to small children
- Be sure to have water handy
- Never throw fireworks at another person
- Remember to call your local 911 for emergencies
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