Keeping your Independence Day fireworks legal

The Fourth of July will be here soon and the Simsbury Fire Marshal is reminding residents about which fireworks are legal in Connecticut and which are illegal. Connecticut law prohibits the sale, possession or use of fireworks without a permit. Here is a look at what’s allowed and what is not in Connecticut.

Legal

• Sparklers and fountains, which produce sparks when lit, are not considered fireworks and are legal in the state but cannot be sold or used by anyone younger than 16.
• Only sparklers and fountains, which are non-explosive and non-aerial, are legal in Connecticut.

Illegal

• Devices that fly or explode are illegal in Connecticut, including
  • firecrackers
  • skyrockets
  • bottle rockets
  • roman candles
  • any firework containing any explosive or flammable compound
• Novelties and trick noisemakers are banned in Connecticut, such as
  • smoke bombs
  • party poppers
  • snappers
  • the “snake”
• Sky Lanterns are also prohibited under this statute.
• It is illegal in Connecticut for non-professional, non-licensed individuals to purchase, use, possess or sell fireworks.
• Connecticut residents are prohibited from purchasing fireworks elsewhere and transporting them into the state.

The Simsbury Fire Marshal urges residents to leave the Fireworks and Fountains in the hands of licensed professionals, and suggest going to see a licensed show this summer. This will keep your family and friends safe from injuries which can occur when using these types of products.