Fireworks: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do fireworks rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights prohibits the use, sale, and possession of consumer fireworks within village limits, consistent with Illinois state law. Illinois is one of the strictest states for fireworks regulation, banning most consumer fireworks including firecrackers, bottle rockets, and Roman candles. Only novelty items such as sparklers, snakes, and smoke devices are legal. Arlington Heights Police enforce fireworks violations, especially around the Fourth of July.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Consumer fireworks are ILLEGAL statewide in Illinois per 425 ILCS 35. Only sparklers up to 12 inches, snakes, and party poppers are permitted. Des Plaines Police enforce.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer Fireworks | Illegal (IL state law) | - |
| Legal Items | Sparklers, snakes, smoke devices only | - |
| State Penalty | Class A misdemeanor, up to $2,500 | - |
| Professional Shows | Permitted with village/fire approval | - |
| Contact | (847) 368-5300 AH Police | - |
| State Law | - | 425 ILCS 35 — consumer fireworks ILLEGAL |
| Allowed | - | Sparklers ≤12 in, snakes, party poppers |
| Professional Displays | - | State Fire Marshal permit required |
| Enforcement | - | Des Plaines Police: 847-391-5400 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Are fireworks legal in Arlington Heights?
No. Consumer fireworks including firecrackers, bottle rockets, and Roman candles are illegal under Illinois state law and village ordinance. Only novelty items like sparklers, snakes, and smoke devices are legal.
What is the penalty for setting off fireworks in Arlington Heights?
Possession or use of illegal fireworks is a Class A misdemeanor under Illinois law, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. Village fines apply in addition to state penalties.
Can I buy fireworks in Indiana and use them in Arlington Heights?
No. While Indiana allows consumer fireworks sales, bringing them into Illinois and using them in Arlington Heights is illegal. Possession of illegal fireworks in Illinois is a criminal offense regardless of where they were purchased.
Des Plaines FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in Des Plaines?
Consumer fireworks are ILLEGAL statewide in Illinois per 425 ILCS 35. Only sparklers up to 12 inches, snakes, and party poppers are permitted. Des Plaines Police enforce.
When can I set off fireworks in Des Plaines?
State Law: 425 ILCS 35 — consumer fireworks ILLEGAL. Allowed: Sparklers ≤12 in, snakes, party poppers. Professional Displays: State Fire Marshal permit required. Enforcement: Des Plaines Police: 847-391-5400.
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