Charleston County, SC Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

South Carolina is a fireworks-permissive state under SC Code Title 23, Chapter 35 (Fireworks and Explosives). Permissible consumer fireworks may be sold to and used by anyone 18 or older, year-round. SC Code 23-35-130 makes ground salutes, cherry bombs, M-80s, T-N-T salutes, bulldog salutes, and similar high-explosive devices illegal to manufacture, store, transport, or possess. Charleston County itself does not impose a county-wide fireworks ban in unincorporated areas — fireworks may be used on private property with the owner's permission, subject to nuisance, noise, and trespass laws. Within incorporated municipalities, however, rules vary sharply: City of Charleston Code Sec. 13-191 prohibits the use, sale, possession, and discharge of fireworks within city limits (including Daniel Island, James Island annexed areas, West Ashley, and downtown), with sparklers and snap-pops as the primary exception. Folly Beach prohibits open fires and fireworks at all times on the beach and within city limits. Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island prohibit fireworks within their town limits and on all beaches except for permitted public displays. Mount Pleasant restricts fireworks to a narrow Independence Day window (approximately 11 AM–11:45 PM on July 4). North Charleston permits fireworks daily 9 AM–11:30 PM, extended to 1 AM the morning of July 5. Under SC Code 23-35-175, any property owner, lessee, or managing authority may file a Discharge of Fireworks Prohibited Agreement with local law enforcement to establish a posted Fireworks Prohibited Zone; local governments may extend zones onto adjacent public property after a public hearing. Professional displays require licensing and a permit from the local governing body and the SC State Fire Marshal (LLR).