Are fireworks legal in RI? Here's an explanation of the laws for home use
As Independence Day approaches, Rhode Islanders are planning celebrations all across the state. Along with buying supplies for barbecues and flag-shaped desserts, fireworks are on many people’s Fourth of July shopping lists.
Before buying, however, it is important to check state laws to learn the types of fireworks that are legal in Rhode Island, as well as the legal ways to use them. Below is an outline of Rhode Island's firework laws, places to buy fireworks in-state, and tips to keep you safe while using fireworks.
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What is a legal firework in Rhode Island?
According to Rhode Island General Law 11-13-1, the only fireworks legal for public use are ground or hand-held sparkling devices, commonly known as sparklers. Other devices that fit this category include fountains, wheels, spinners, party poppers and toy smoke devices. Legal fireworks may produce effects such as colored sparks, flames, audible cracking noises, whistle effects and smoke.
What is an illegal firework in Rhode Island?
The state fire marshal defines an illegal firework as “any firecrackers, rockets, mortars, or any other device that launches a projectile and/or makes a bang.” Any devices that rise into the air, fire projectiles into the air, or explode are considered illegal.
How do I legally set off fireworks?
Only those age 16 and older can buy fireworks.
There are no special steps for using legal fireworks at your house, though Rhode Island does require proper storage of fireworks.
If you're looking to do a fireworks show using commercial fireworks, then you'll need a permit from the state fire marshal, which must be applied for at least 15 days in advance of the show. Rhode Island also requires proper storage of fireworks, with 125 pounds per proper storage area.
What about violations?
According to Rhode Island Fire Laws 28.23.11-9, fire marshals and officers can seize illegal fireworks and arrest their owner(s) without a warrant.
A person found to be in illegal possession of display fireworks, aerial consumer fireworks or pyrotechnics can be fined up to $500 and imprisoned for up to one year if found guilty.
A person found to be illegally using or displaying those same fireworks can be charged with a felony and be fined not less than $1,000, imprisoned for not more than five years, or both.
Where can you buy fireworks in Rhode Island?
With these rules and regulations in mind, Rhode Island has many places that sell legal fireworks. The country's biggest fireworks retailer, Phantom Fireworks, has locations in Cumberland, Johnston, North Providence, North Smithfield, Warwick and West Warwick. Other large stores include Firework Connection in Tiverton, TCS Fireworks in Woonsocket, and Fireworks RI in Coventry, East Providence, Warren, Warwick and Woonsocket.
Safety tips for fireworks
If you are planning to use fireworks to celebrate the Fourth of July, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) provides the following safety tips to avoid burns and related injuries.
Do not allow children to ignite or play with fireworks.
Keep water handy in case of fire.
Light fireworks one at a time.
Do not place any body parts directly over the firework while lighting it.
Keep your distance from fireworks once lit.
Never point or throw fireworks at others.
Never touch fireworks that have not fully ignited.
Never use fireworks while intoxicated.
After the firework is done burning, spray with water before discarding.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Are fireworks legal in RI? Here are the laws for home use
