Fireworks – Frequently Asked Questions

House Bill 542 was signed into law on October 30, 2017. Under this new PA state law, the Fireworks Act of 1939 was repealed and replaced in its entirety.

Q: Which fireworks are Pennsylvania residents now allowed to purchase and use?

A: Consumers can now purchase and use “Class C” or “consumer grade” fireworks that include firecrackers, Roman Candles, bottle rockets and similar fireworks that contain a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material. The expansion includes those fireworks that were previously available to out-of-state residents only.

“Display Fireworks”, which are classified as (including) salutes that contain more than two grains or 130 milligrams of explosive materials and professional grade aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic compositions are still only allowed to be used by professionals with a Permit.

Q: Who can purchase fireworks?

A:  Anyone over 18 years of age can purchase them

Q:  What are the restrictions of where they can be used?

A:  They cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without express permission of the property owner;

They cannot be discharged from or 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;

They cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug.