Are fireworks illegal in Ohio and Kentucky? What to know before July 4th
Fireworks, barbeques and red, white and blue: the Fourth of July is almost upon us.
For many, watching those mesmerizing sparks light up the air is a quintessential part of the holiday. Americans spent around $2.3 billion on fireworks last Fourth of July, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association.
If you're planning on watching fireworks Tuesday, we've got you covered with a list of Fourth of July fireworks displays in Cincinnati. If you want to set off your own at home, brush up on state fireworks laws in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana below.
Fireworks laws in Ohio
A new fireworks law went into effect last year. Here are some of the state's Fourth of July rules:
Ohioans can discharge fireworks between 4-11 p.m. July 3, 4 and 5, and the Friday, Saturday and Sunday immediately before and after the holiday. Only 1.4G fireworks ‑ consumer fireworks consistent with federal regulations‑ are allowed, and they must be purchased at a licensed store in Ohio.
People can set off fireworks on their own property or another person's property with their permission. However, local governments can set additional restrictions or prohibit fireworks entirely, so check with local officials first.
Fireworks cannot be set off:
On public property or schools
Indoors
During drought conditions, red flag warnings or hazardous weather
Within 150 feet of a property with livestock, unless you give them written notice at least five days in advance
Discharging fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a first-degree misdemeanor. Minors are also not allowed to set off fireworks.
Read more about Ohio's fireworks law here.
Kentucky fireworks laws
All consumer fireworks are legal under Kentucky state law, with some limits on explosive composition amounts. The Legislature has a list of allowed consumer fireworks, including hand-held sparklers, fountain fireworks, cone fountains, ground spinners, sky and bottle rockets, Roman candles, firecrackers and more.
Minors cannot buy or set off fireworks, and you cannot ignite fireworks within 200 feet of any home, vehicle, structure or another person.
Local rules, though, vary by county. For example, all fireworks that explode or fly are illegal in Jefferson County. Check with local officials for laws near you.
Indiana fireworks laws
Hoosiers can legally discharge fireworks from 9 a.m. to midnight on the Fourth of July and other holidays. Fireworks can only be set off on the user's property, another person's property with their permission, or in an area the Indiana State Fire Marshal has designated for fireworks.
To purchase fireworks you must be 18 years old. Minors can use and possess fireworks only if an adult is present.
Local ordinances may restrict the use of fireworks, so check with local officials first. Violating the law can result in a Class C Infraction, but those who cause property damage or bodily harm with fireworks can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony.
Learn more on the Indiana State Police website.
Where to buy fireworks near Cincinnati
Lucky Patriot Fireworks (5476 Mount Zion Road, Milford, Ohio).
Rozzi Famous Fireworks (10059 Loveland Madeira Road, Loveland, Ohio).
Tri-State Fireworks (1020 Town Drive, Wilder, Kentucky).
Phantom Fireworks of Florence (8125 Mall Road, Florence, Kentucky).
Vitos Fireworks (6180 Taylor Mill Road, Independence, Kentucky).
Queen City Fireworks (433 Oberting Road, Greendale, Indiana).
Half Price Fireworks (600 Elm St., Lawrenceburg, Indiana).
You can also find fountain device fireworks at stores like Big Lots, Kroger, Lowe's, Meijer and Walmart in Ohio. Fountain device fireworks are nonaerial, ground-based or hand-held fireworks. Find out more at the Ohio Department of Commerce website.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Are fireworks illegal in Ohio? Fireworks laws in Ohio, Kentucky
