Fireworks: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do fireworks rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Phoenix and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix bans the use of consumer and permissible consumer fireworks within city limits under Sec. 23-44.2. Only novelty items and permitted public displays allowed. State law ARS §36-1606 allows permissible consumer fireworks statewide but Phoenix has opted for a local ban.
View full Phoenix 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 | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| In City | Consumer fireworks banned | - |
| Novelty | Snappers/poppers allowed | - |
| State Law | ARS §36-1606 | - |
| Aerial | Illegal statewide | - |
| 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.
Phoenix FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in Phoenix?
Phoenix bans the use of consumer and permissible consumer fireworks within city limits under Sec. 23-44.2. Only novelty items and permitted public displays allowed. State law ARS §36-1606 allows permissible consumer fireworks statewide but Phoenix has opted for a local ban.
When can I set off fireworks in Phoenix?
In City: Consumer fireworks banned. Novelty: Snappers/poppers allowed. State Law: ARS §36-1606. Aerial: Illegal statewide.
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.
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