Fireworks: Portland vs Seattle
How do fireworks rules compare between Portland, OR and Seattle, WA?
Portland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Under Oregon Revised Statute 480.111, only ground-based, non-aerial 'safe and sane' fireworks are legal in Portland — anything that flies, explodes, travels more than 6 feet on the ground, or shoots more than 12 inches into the air is illegal. Portland Fire & Rescue enforces the state ban under Portland City Code 31.16 and may impose temporary bans during high fire danger.
View full Portland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
All consumer fireworks are banned in Seattle. Violations are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Ceremonial fireworks may be permitted via a Seattle Fire Department no-fee permit (SFD CAM 5033).
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | ORS 480.111 — no aerial, exploding, or projectile fireworks | - |
| City Code | PCC 31.16 (Oregon Fire Code adoption with amendments) | - |
| Legal Items | Ground spinners, fountains, sparklers, snakes, smoke devices | - |
| Sales Window | June 23-July 6 and Dec 27-Jan 1 (ORS 480.127) | - |
| Penalty | Class B misdemeanor; up to $2,500 + civil fire costs | Gross misdemeanor — up to $5,000 + 1 yr jail |
| Public Display | Requires State Fire Marshal license + PF&R permit | - |
| Status | - | ALL fireworks banned (including sparklers) |
| Exception | - | Ceremonial permit via SFD (no fee) |
| Report | - | Non-emergency: (206) 625-5011 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Portland FAQ
Are aerial fireworks legal in Portland on July 4th?
No. Oregon Revised Statute 480.111 makes any firework that flies, explodes, or travels more than 6 feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air illegal statewide, including in Portland. The legal items are limited to ground spinners, fountains, sparklers, and snakes.
Can I bring fireworks from Washington into Portland?
Possession in Oregon of fireworks that are illegal under ORS 480.111 is itself a Class B misdemeanor, regardless of where they were purchased. Bringing aerial or exploding fireworks from Washington State into Portland exposes you to fines up to $2,500 and full civil liability if a fire results.
Seattle FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in Seattle?
All consumer fireworks are banned in Seattle. Violations are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Ceremonial fireworks may be permitted via a Seattle Fire Department no-fee permit (SFD CAM 5033).
When can I set off fireworks in Seattle?
Status: ALL fireworks banned (including sparklers). Penalty: Gross misdemeanor — up to $5,000 + 1 yr jail. Exception: Ceremonial permit via SFD (no fee). Report: Non-emergency: (206) 625-5011.
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