The symbolic use of fireworks on the July 4th, New Years Eve, and other celebratory events is something Americans have always enjoyed. However, for public safety reasons, many local municipalities have passed restrictive laws restricting the possession and use of fireworks.
Every year there are dozens of fireworks-related injuries. Unfortunately, many of the injuries are to children, even while under adult supervision. In addition, there were many fireworks-related fires resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in property loss.
If you do decide to host your own display on July 4th or any other time, be sure to know the laws in your area. Read below about fireworks laws in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area, as well as other municipalities and unincorporated areas in the Puget Sound region. In addition, only let adults light fireworks, and keep fireworks, matches, and lighters away from small hands. Be sure to discharge all fireworks devices so there are no leftovers to tempt curious children later.
The science of fireworks
Listed below are links to fun and interesting information about fireworks.
- The Art and Science of Fireworks Displays is a short article about the science behind the bursts and colors.
- Fun science behind fireworks. Find out how fireworks work, where the cool colors come from and what makes the big explosions.
- Anatomy of a Firework is a flashy interactive where you can see a typical firework from the inside out.
- ‘The Science of Fireworks’ video is a fun, kid-friendly 1-hour YouTube, hosted by the entertaining Professor Chris Bishop from Royal Institution.
Father and son with fireworks – DepositPhotos.com
Fireworks laws in the Puget Sound region
In the interest of public safety, many governments have categorized the possession of fireworks as an illegal act and have therefore criminalized fourth of July celebrations in their city. So, before you celebrate your fourth of July with fireworks, be sure to research and educate yourself on the relevant fireworks laws in your area.
Contact your local police or fire department to inquire about local rules, ordinances, and laws before purchasing or using fireworks. The links below are a good starting place for learning about fireworks regulations where you live.
Washington State: Washington State Fireworks Law governs the regulation of fireworks, including what fireworks are legal, licensing for public fireworks displays and for fireworks sellers, and when fireworks may be discharged. However, it leaves some room for local regulation, such as when fireworks may be sold or discharged and for cities and counties to completely prohibit the sale and discharge of fireworks. More info: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=70.77
Skagit county: Skagit County regulates fireworks within the unincorporated portions of the county. More info: https://www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/FireMarshal/fireworks.htm
Snohomish County: Most cities and all parks and public lands prohibit the discharge of fireworks. More info: https://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/290/Fireworks
Everett More info: https://everettwa.gov/documentcenter/view/906
King County fireworks regulations apply to unincorporated areas outside the jurisdiction of local cities. More info: https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/local-services/permits/fire-safety.aspx
Seattle: There are no legal fireworks in the City of Seattle. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks are prohibited. Fireworks offenses are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Certain types of fireworks for ceremonial purposes may be allowed under a special no-fee permit. More info: see Seattle Fire Department Client Assistance Memo 5033.
Pierce County: The sale and discharge of fireworks is regulated. More info: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/3893/Fireworks
Tacoma: All Fireworks are illegal in the City of Tacoma. More info: https://www.cityoftacoma.org/government/city_departments/fire/About/fireworks
Island County (Camano & Whidbey Islands): contact your local municipality, police, or fire department.
Tribal Lands: Remember that many of the fireworks purchased on Tribal Land are only legal to discharge on a Tribal Land.
Other areas: Contact your local police or fire department to inquire about local rules, ordinances, and laws before purchasing, possessing, or discharging fireworks.
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Have a “safe and sane” Fourth of July! – DepositPhotos.com
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