Which Types of Fireworks Are Legal in Florida?
By Jonathan Blecher on June 16, 2021
Independence Day is a pyromaniac’s Christmas in July, especially since a 2020 law in Florida legalizes the purchase and use of pretty much all fireworks on three designated holidays: July 4, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Yes, that means that if it shoots up into the air and creates a spectacle when it explodes, you can legally purchase it for use on July 4 this year.
To be clear, though, the law defines fireworks as the following:
“… any combustible or explosive composition or substance or combination of substances or, except as hereinafter provided, any article prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation.”
So, got some skyrockets, Roman candles, dago bombs, firecrackers, or torpedoes lying around? These and other devices like them all meet the legal definition of fireworks in Florida. That means they are legal to buy and use under state law, but only on one of the three designated holidays.
What’s Not Considered a Firework
Importantly, the law recognizes that not everything that makes noise or puts on a spectacle is a firework. That should make sense since some pyrotechnic devices are rather tame compared to the ones that really go BOOM!
As a result, the following are completely legal to purchase and use all year long:
- Sparklers
- Toy pistol paper caps
- Snakes and glow worms
- Smoke devices
- Party poppers
- Booby traps
- Snappers
- Trick matches
- Cigarette load
- Auto burglar alarms
Possession of Fireworks
Merely possessing fireworks is not a crime in Florida, but it is illegal for any person or business to sell or use any fireworks without a permit from the Board of County Commission. Using fireworks on days other than those designated by law is also punishable as a first-degree misdemeanor, which can carry a sentence of up to a year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.
Most cities and counties have passed their own ordinances concerning the sale and use of fireworks, so be sure to check with your local laws for more information.
Do You Require Legal Assistance?
If you are charged with a fireworks-related crime, we at Jonathan Blecher, P.A. may be able to help. As a criminal defense law firm in Miami, we can assist those who have been charged with any misdemeanor or felony offense. These include charges involving fireworks, firearms, DUI, or other criminal accusations that can result from Independence Day activities.
Our attorney has more than 40 years of experience advocating for people when they were at their most vulnerable. If you are looking for an advocate who will stand by you and help you fight against your charges, don’t hesitate to turn to Jonathan Blecher, P.A. for help!
Get in touch with us today by contacting us online. When you do, request a consultation to learn more about how we can help.