Are Fireworks Legal in Texas?

Fireworks are a Texas summer staple — especially around the Fourth of July. But there are different considerations to mull over before you get swept up in the summer fun. For one, not all fireworks are legal. Understand what’s allowed, where you can light fireworks, and how to stay safe while enjoying them

A Guide to Fireworks in Texas

In Texas, consumer fireworks, also known as “1.4G fireworks,” can be sold through authorized retailers. These fireworks hold the maximum legal limit of explosive material, 50 mg, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association. Some common legal fireworks in Texas include:

• Sparklers 
• Roman candles that are smaller than 3/8 of an inch wide with less than 10 balls, weighing less than 20 grams each 
• Small fireworks that don’t eject shrapnel
• Firecrackers smaller than 1.5 inches long or 1/4 inches in diameter

Avoid the following types of fireworks, which are illegal:

• Cherry bombs
• M-80s
• M-100s (silver salutes)

What to Look for When Buying Fireworks

For starters, always buy fireworks from an established retail outlet that’s selling within the specific allotted time frame. (Fireworks can only be sold at certain times of the year, usually leading up to a holiday, per state law.) 

Here are some other things to look for while shopping to ensure your purchase is legit:

• Look for the manufacturer’s name on the box or the item itself.
• Fireworks should have cautionary labeling and instructions for proper use on the packaging. 
• Ensure that the fuse burn time is between 3 and 9 seconds. (This allows you to get back at a safe distance after lighting.)
• Beware of devices with red, silver, or brown coloring that are 1–6 inches long and up to an inch or more in diameter. This could be the mark of an illegal explosive, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

Be Mindful of Local Restrictions

Just because you can buy fireworks doesn’t mean you can set them off — especially within city limits. For example, most counties in North Texas allow fireworks to be lit on private property in an unincorporated area as long as you have the landowner’s permission. Always check your area’s stance on fireworks. While you’re at it, learn more about how fireworks can impact insurance.

Staying Safe Around Fireworks 

Keep these fireworks safety tips top of mind before lighting up the night sky.

• Check the weather to ensure there aren’t any burn ban warnings, strong winds, or overly dry conditions.
• Stay at least 35 feet from ground fireworks and at least 150 feet away from the ignition zone for aerial displays.
• Light one firework at a time.
• Make sure there is always water or a fire extinguisher on hand for any emergencies. 
• If a firework is malfunctioning, don’t light it again.
• Don’t shoot fireworks from a metal or glass container.
• Once you’re done, soak all used fireworks in water before throwing them away.

Want to forgo fireworks at home? Here are the best places to see fireworks in Texas!