Lighting fireworks for 4th of July in Lee, Collier County? Here's what to know ahead of celebration

Samantha Neely, Fort Myers News-Press
·2 min read

Fourth of July is nearly upon us, so it's time to bust out the barbecues, send out the invites and start buying fireworks.

As we prepare to celebrate the nation's birthday bash, it's important to keep safety in mind when it comes to fireworks. In 2021, at least nine people died, and an estimated 11,500 were injured in incidents involving colorful explosives.

Here's what Southwest Florida's local law looks like, as well as where to nab some sparklers before the big holiday and how to keep yourself safe:

411 on firework safety: Are fireworks legal in Florida? What if there's an accident? 11 things you should know

Are fireworks legal in Lee County, Collier County on the Fourth of July?

Noisy or projectile fireworks are usually illegal in Florida. However, a 2020 Florida law established three fireworks holidays when they are allowed: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and Independence Day.

As for local laws, Lee and Collier counties both allow the use of permitted fireworks, but the designated holidays do not supersede neighborhood covenants and restrictions, such as Fort Myers Beach. If you live in an HOA community, make sure to double-check if using fireworks is permitted.

Want to read more? Florida statutes.

What fireworks are allowed during the three holidays?

  • Fireworks permitted: Devices approved and listed by the state fire marshal which emit a shower of sparks upon burning, do not contain any explosive compounds, do not detonate or explode, are handheld or ground-based, cannot propel themselves through the air, and contain no more than 100 grams of the chemical compound that produces sparks upon burning; snakes, smoke devices, trick noisemakers, party poppers, booby traps, snappers, trick match.

  • Fireworks prohibited: Firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, Daygo bombs, and any fireworks containing explosive or flammable compounds

How old do I need to be to purchase fireworks?

The purchaser needs to be at least 18 years old.

Where can I get fireworks?

In Lee County:

  • Galaxy Fireworks - 12600 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers

  • Sky King Fireworks - 15901 S. Tamiami Trail

  • Phantom Fireworks of Ft Myers - 16243 S. Tamiami Trail Ste. 4

  • TNT Fireworks - 5512 8th St. W., Lehigh Acres

In Collier County:

  • Firepower Fireworks - 5300 Golden Gate Pkwy., Golden Gate

  • Phantom Fireworks - 12606 Tamiami Trail E, Naples

How to stay safe while using fireworks

Here are six ways to stay safe while celebrating:

  • Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.

  • Keep a fire extinguisher, a bucket of water, or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishaps.

  • Light only one item at a time and never attempt to re-light a "dud." Soak them with water and throw them away.

  • Do not use unwrapped items or items that may have been tampered with.

  • Use sparklers and other fireworks on a flat, hard surface. Do not light them on grass.

  • Only purchase fireworks from licensed vendors.

Contributing: Cheryl McCloud, Treasure Coast Newspapers

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: 4th of July fireworks in Lee, Collier County: safety tips and rules