Fireworks: East Honolulu vs Honolulu
How do fireworks rules compare between East Honolulu, HI and Honolulu, HI?
East Honolulu and Honolulu have similar restriction levels.
East Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu's Fireworks Control ordinance (ROH Article 6) bans possession or use of consumer fireworks, aerial devices, and display fireworks citywide, with narrow exceptions: firecrackers are allowed only with a permit on New Year's, Fourth of July, Chinese New Year, and approved cultural events.
View full East Honolulu rules →Honolulu, HI
Honolulu County
Honolulu bans virtually all consumer fireworks including sparklers, fountains, and aerial devices. Only licensed firecrackers with a permit are allowed on designated holidays. Violations carry heavy fines and potential imprisonment under ROH Chapter 20 and Hawaii state law.
View full Honolulu rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | East Honolulu | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | ROH Sec. 20-6.2; 20-6.13 | - |
| Consumer Fireworks | Banned (sparklers, fountains, aerials) | - |
| Firecracker Permit | $25, up to 5,000, 10 days advance | - |
| State Law | HRS Chapter 132D | - |
| Consumer fireworks | - | Prohibited (no permit available) |
| Firecrackers | - | Permit required; HFD issues permits |
| Base fine (ROH) | - | $250 – $2,000 per offense |
| Proximity fine (state) | - | $2,000 within 500 ft of dwelling |
| Governing code | - | ROH Ch. 20, Art. 6; HRS Ch. 132D |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
East Honolulu FAQ
Are sparklers and fountains legal in East Honolulu?
No. Sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, and similar consumer fireworks are unlawful to possess or use under ROH Section 20-6.2(a); only permitted firecrackers and licensed display fireworks are allowed.
How many firecrackers can a permit cover, and when?
Each $25 firecracker permit allows up to 5,000 individual firecrackers, usable only during the New Year's, Chinese New Year, Fourth of July, or approved cultural-use windows set in ROH Section 20-6.13.
Honolulu FAQ
Are sparklers legal in Honolulu?
No. Sparklers are classified as consumer fireworks and are prohibited in the City and County of Honolulu without exception.
How do I get a firecracker permit?
Apply through the Honolulu Fire Department at least 10 days before the intended use date. Permits are only issued for approved holidays and licensed sellers.
Can neighbors report illegal fireworks use?
Yes. Call HPD non-emergency line or 911. Officers may cite violators on the spot; penalties range from $250 fines to felony charges under Act 243.
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