Fireworks: Gilbert vs Surprise
How do fireworks rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Gilbert has fewer restrictions than Surprise.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert prohibits consumer fireworks year-round except during state-mandated legal periods (May 4-6, June 24-July 6, Dec 24-Jan 3). Fireworks are prohibited on all public property. Violations carry a $1,000 fine.
View full Gilbert rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona law (ARS 36-1601 through 36-1613) restricts consumer fireworks. Only permissible consumer fireworks (ground-based, non-aerial) may be sold and used in Surprise. Aerial fireworks, firecrackers, and bottle rockets are illegal. Use is permitted only during designated holiday periods around July 4th, New Year's Eve, and Cinco de Mayo.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Periods | May, Jun-Jul, Dec-Jan | - |
| Outside Dates | $1,000 fine | - |
| Public Property | Prohibited always | - |
| Hours | 8 AM–11 PM | - |
| Legal Types | - | Ground-based only (sparklers, fountains) |
| Illegal Types | - | Aerial, firecrackers, bottle rockets |
| Dates Allowed | - | July 4th, NYE, Cinco de Mayo periods |
| Violation | - | Class 1 misdemeanor |
| Police | - | (623) 222-4000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in Gilbert?
Gilbert prohibits consumer fireworks year-round except during state-mandated legal periods (May 4-6, June 24-July 6, Dec 24-Jan 3). Fireworks are prohibited on all public property. Violations carry a $1,000 fine.
When can I set off fireworks in Gilbert?
Legal Periods: May, Jun-Jul, Dec-Jan. Outside Dates: $1,000 fine. Public Property: Prohibited always. Hours: 8 AM–11 PM.
Surprise FAQ
What fireworks are legal in Surprise?
Only permissible consumer fireworks (ground-based): sparklers, fountains, smoke devices, and ground spinners. Aerial fireworks, firecrackers, and bottle rockets are illegal.
When can I use fireworks in Surprise?
Permissible fireworks may be used June 24-July 6, December 24-January 3, and around Cinco de Mayo (May 3-5) and Diwali.
How do I report illegal fireworks?
Call Surprise Police at (623) 222-4000. Do not attempt to confront people using illegal fireworks.
Compare other topics
See how Gilbert and Surprise compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool