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Ohio’s New Fireworks Law
Beginning July 1st, 2022, Ohioans can legally discharge 1.4G consumer fireworks in Ohio on certain days UNLESS the relevant political subdivision has chosen to ban their use.
What are 1.4G Consumer Fireworks?
Formerly known as Class C Common Fireworks, 1.4G explosives are consumer fireworks intended for use by the general public. These are usually smaller fireworks available for purchase at local fireworks stores. Per the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, examples of consumer fireworks include shells and mortars, multiple tube devices, Roman candles, rockets, sparklers, firecrackers with no more than 50 milligrams of powder, and novelty items, such as snakes, airplanes, ground spinners, helicopters, fountains, and party poppers. Ohioans are NOT permitted to purchase or discharge 1.3G display fireworks.
When is it legal to discharge Consumer Fireworks?
Beginning in July 2022, unless limited by local laws, Ohioans can discharge consumer fireworks on the following dates and times:
- July 3, 4, and 5, and the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday immediately before and after July 4th (4 p.m.-11 p.m.)
- Labor Day weekend (4 p.m.-11 p.m.) [1st Monday of September and the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding that Monday]
- Diwali (4 p.m.-11 p.m.)
- New Year’s Eve (4 p.m.-11:59 p.m.)
- New Year’s Day (12 a.m.-1 a.m.; 4 p.m.-11 p.m.)
- Chinese New Year (4 p.m.-11 p.m.)
- Cinco de Mayo (4 p.m.-11 p.m.)
- Memorial Day weekend (4 p.m.-11 p.m.) [last Monday in May and the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding that day]
- Juneteenth (4 p.m.-11 p.m.) [June 19]
Where is it legal to discharge Consumer Fireworks?
Consumers can discharge fireworks on their own property or another person’s property with the property owner’s express permission.
Are there rules and restrictions?
Yes, some provisions in the rules include:
- No person under the age of 18 may handle or discharge fireworks.
- Persons under 18 cannot be within 150 feet of the discharge point of aerial fireworks.
- Aerial devices cannot be discharged within 150 feet of spectators (including aerial shells, roman candles, cakes, and bottle rockets).
- Non-aerial devices cannot be discharged within 50 feet of spectators (including fountains, firecrackers, and ground effect devices).
- Fireworks cannot be discharged indoors.
- Fireworks cannot be aimed at or discharged toward any person or object (such as buildings).
- Fireworks cannot be discharged on public property or private school property.
Fireworks cannot be discharged if drought conditions exist or in an area where a red flag warning or other weather hazard exists.
In addition, relevant R.C. provisions state that no person can use fireworks while in possession or control of, or under the influence of, any intoxicating liquor, beer, or controlled substance. A person who violates this is guilty of a first-degree misdemeanor.
For additional information, visit the Ohio Department of Commerce FAQs for Consumers. In addition, Ohio Revised Code (R.C.) § 3743.45 (as effective July 1st, 2022) and Ohio Fire Code (OFC) § 5626 (effective July 3rd, 2022) apply. You can read them in their entirety via the following links: (R.C.) § 3743.45, (OFC) § 5626.
Safety Tips
Fireworks are incredibly hazardous – so please be safe and follow basic safety protocols. Each year, thousands of injuries occur in fireworks-related incidents, and sadly, many people die as a result. In addition, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires yearly, resulting in extensive damage to structures, vehicles, and property. The Consumer Product Safety Commission offers the following guidelines for safety:
- Never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks.
- Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.
- Never light fireworks indoors.
- Only use fireworks away from people, houses, and flammable material.
- Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
- Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding them.
- Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby to thoroughly douse fireworks that don’t discharge or in case of fire.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.