Ohio Fireworks Laws
With summer in full swing and the Fourth of July approaching, many Ohio families are gearing up for at-home fireworks celebrations. However, it’s vital to be safe when using fireworks, as the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that about 9,700 people nationwide suffered fireworks injuries in one recent year. It’s also crucial to understand the Ohio fireworks law to avoid legal penalties for setting off fireworks at the wrong time or in the wrong place.
Are Fireworks Legal in Ohio in 2025?
Yes, fireworks are broadly legal in Ohio in 2025. Some states have banned or severely restricted people’s ability to buy and set off fireworks, mainly in response to concerns about wildfires. Ohio law generally allows you to buy and light fireworks as long as you follow state laws.
What Does Ohio Fireworks Law Say?
State law and the Ohio Fire Code both contain crucial rules regarding where, when, and how you can buy and use fireworks. Here are the key points to know:
- You can legally buy and use consumer-grade fireworks in Ohio. The technical term for allowed fireworks is “1.4G fireworks,” which refers to the federal regulations that govern these products. It is legal to discharge 1.4g consumer fireworks in Ohio, provided you do so in a lawful manner. (Businesses and governments looking to put on larger displays must follow different rules.)
- You must purchase fireworks from a licensed Ohio retailer, manufacturer, or wholesaler.
- You can set off fireworks only on certain days of the year and only on private property with the owner’s permission.
- Local governments can limit or ban fireworks even on the days that state law normally allows you to discharge fireworks. Check your local laws before lighting anything to avoid legal trouble.
- You can only use fireworks on private property. Fireworks cannot be discharged in public places, such as parks or streets.
- You must follow safety laws. Even when the law allows you to light fireworks, violating state or local noise, nuisance, or safety rules can get you in trouble.
- Using any fireworks that do not comply with state law or local restrictions (such as commercial-grade fireworks) is illegal.
- Consumer-grade fireworks allowed under state law are not considered public displays, so you don’t need a special exhibitor’s license.
- Selling or using larger fireworks still requires special licensing and permits and is typically reserved for professionals.
Fireworks Laws in Cleveland, Ohio
While recent changes to Ohio law allow individuals and families to set off fireworks on their own property, the state allows cities and counties to set their own rules. For Cleveland residents, that means lighting fireworks remains largely illegal within city limits, even on private property during days that state law usually allows these celebrations. There are some public fireworks displays scheduled throughout the Cleveland area that residents can attend.
Legal Fireworks Dates and Locations in Ohio
Under the Ohio fireworks law, the dates and times when residents can set off fireworks on their private property are:
- July 3-5 from 4-11 p.m.
- Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of Labor Day weekend from 4-11 p.m.
- Diwali from 4-11 p.m.
- New Year’s Eve from 4-11:59 p.m.
- New Year’s Day from 12-1 a.m. and 4-11 p.m.
- Chinese New Year’s day from 4-11 p.m.
- Cinco de Mayo from 4-11 p.m.
- Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of Memorial Day weekend from 4-11 p.m.
- Juneteenth (June 19) from 4-11 p.m.
What Happens if You Break Ohio’s Fireworks Law?
If you set off fireworks illegally, such as outside the permitted dates or without the property owner’s permission, you could be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. That means you could face up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. Selling fireworks without a proper license can bring even harsher penalties, including felony charges. Police can also confiscate and destroy illegal fireworks on the spot.
Local governments can impose their own fireworks rules in addition to state penalties. Cities, townships, or counties may ban fireworks entirely or issue fines for violations, even on days when the state allows them.
Fireworks Safety Tips for Ohio Residents
Follow these guidelines to stay safe and follow the law when using fireworks in Ohio:
- Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from homes, trees, cars, and dry grass.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fires or malfunctions.
- Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, buildings, or cars.
- Light one firework at a time, then back up quickly to a safe distance.
- Never try to relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes to see if it ignites, then soak it in water.
- Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets or shoot them from metal or glass containers.
- Make sure to supervise children closely. They should only use sparklers or small novelty items with help from an adult.
- Avoid alcohol or other impairing substances while lighting fireworks.
- Soak used fireworks in water before throwing them away to prevent fires.
Ohio Fireworks Law FAQs
Ohio’s fireworks laws are complicated, but here are the answers to some common questions you might have about the rules:
How old do you have to be to light fireworks in Ohio?
You must be 18 to handle or light fireworks in Ohio.
Can I set off fireworks in my backyard in Ohio?
Yes, you can set off fireworks in your backyard if your local government allows it. You can also light fireworks on someone else’s property with their permission.
What is the latest time I can set off fireworks?
In general, you can’t set off fireworks after 11 p.m. in Ohio. One notable exception is New Year’s Eve, when you can set off fireworks as late as 1 a.m. after the year changes.
Can I light fireworks purchased out of state?
No. You can only light fireworks you’ve bought from licensed Ohio vendors. Buying and lighting fireworks purchased in another state is a crime that can lead to severe penalties. Unlicensed fireworks can also be unsafe and explode, putting users and anyone nearby in danger.
Stay Safe, Stay Legal
Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, encourages everyone in Ohio to be smart and safe when using fireworks this summer. If you suffer fireworks injuries because someone was careless or didn’t follow the law, you may have the right to compensation. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with our Ohio personal injury lawyers.
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At Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we only represent consumers. We fight for regular people who have been seriously hurt in accidents. We fight for people who are being crushed by overwhelming debt and need a fresh start. We fight for individuals and families. Never businesses. Never insurance companies. We are loyal to the consumer.
