Fireworks: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do fireworks rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
The Phoenix Fire Code prohibits the sale and use of consumer fireworks, but Arizona Revised Statutes section 36-1606 preempts local rules and permits the sale and use of 'permissible consumer fireworks' (ground/sparkling items) only during specific state-set date windows. Aerial and exploding fireworks remain illegal year-round in Phoenix.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe prohibits the use, sale, and possession of consumer fireworks within city limits except for limited permissible items around the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. Only ground-based, non-aerial fireworks like sparklers and fountains are allowed during designated periods.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| State statute | ARS section 36-1606 (state preemption) | - |
| Legal use dates | May 4-6, Jun 24-Jul 6, Dec 26-Jan 4, Diwali days 2-3 | - |
| Legal sale dates | Apr 25-May 6, May 20-Jul 6, Dec 10-Jan 3, Diwali window | - |
| Always illegal | Aerial/exploding fireworks (skyrockets, shells, firecrackers) | - |
| Permissible Types | - | Sparklers, fountains, ground spinners |
| Prohibited | - | Aerial fireworks, firecrackers, roman candles |
| Legal Period (July) | - | June 24–July 6 |
| Legal Period (NYE) | - | December 10–January 3 |
| State Law | - | ARS 36-1606 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Are fireworks legal in Phoenix?
Only 'permissible consumer fireworks' (sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, smoke devices) and only during the date windows set by ARS 36-1606. Aerial and exploding fireworks are illegal in Phoenix all year. The Phoenix Fire Code otherwise bans consumer fireworks.
When can I legally use fireworks in Phoenix?
State law allows use of permissible consumer fireworks May 4-6, June 24-July 6, December 26-January 4, and the second and third days of Diwali. Outside those dates, use is prohibited under the Phoenix Fire Code.
Can the city stop me from using fireworks at night?
Yes. ARS 36-1606 lets Phoenix prohibit use of permissible consumer fireworks between 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., except from 11 p.m. New Year's Eve to 1 a.m. New Year's Day and from 11 p.m. July 4 to 1 a.m. July 5.
Tempe FAQ
Are fireworks legal in Tempe?
Only ground-based permissible fireworks like sparklers and fountains are legal, and only during designated periods around July 4th and New Year's Eve.
What fireworks are banned in Tempe?
Aerial fireworks, firecrackers, roman candles, and all devices that explode or launch into the air are prohibited year-round.
Compare other topics
See how Phoenix and Tempe 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