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Annapolis, MD Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Consumer Fireworks
Banned statewide
Sparklers
Gold-label only (no chlorates)
Display Fireworks
Permit only
State Law
MD Public Safety §10-101

Summary

Consumer fireworks are banned statewide under Maryland Code, Public Safety §10-101. Annapolis Code reinforces the ban. Only sparklers not containing chlorates or perchlorates (gold-label) are legal. Violation can result in a $250+ fine.

§10–101.

(a) In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.

(f) (1) "Fireworks" means combustible, implosive or explosive compositions, substances, combinations of substances, or articles that are prepared to produce a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, implosion, deflagration, or detonation.

(2) "Fireworks" includes 1.3 G fireworks, 1.4 G fireworks, firecrackers, squibs, rockets, Roman candles, fire balloons, and signal lights.

(3) "Fireworks" does not include:

(i) toy pistols, toy canes, toy guns, or other devices that use paper caps that contain 0.25 grains or less of explosive composition if the devices are constructed so that a hand cannot touch the cap when the cap is in place for use;

(ii) toy pistol paper caps that contain less than 0.20 grains of explosive composition;

(iii) sparklers that do not contain chlorates or perchlorates;

(iv) ground–based sparkling devices that are nonaerial and nonexplosive, and are labeled in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission;

(v) paper wrapped snappers that contain less than 0.03 grains of explosive composition; or

(vi) ash–producing pellets known as "snakes" that do not contain mercury and are not regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

(b) (1) "1.3 G fireworks" means special fireworks designed primarily to produce visible or audible effects by combustion or explosion.

(c) (1) "1.4 G fireworks" means common fireworks designed primarily to produce visible effects by combustion.

Source: Maryland Code, Public Safety §10-101 – FireworksView official code

Full Breakdown

Maryland Public Safety Code §10-101 prohibits consumer fireworks statewide. Annapolis enforces the state ban. Only 'gold label' sparklers (not containing chlorates or perchlorates) and toy paper-cap devices are legal for consumer use. Discharging consumer fireworks in Annapolis, including the waterfront, City Dock, residential neighborhoods, and Truxtun Park, is illegal. Only state/local permit holders may use display fireworks. The city's Fourth of July and other holiday events use permitted professional displays. Violation is a misdemeanor under state law with potential fines and/or imprisonment.

Violations & Fines

Consumer fireworks possession/discharge: misdemeanor; fines up to $250 first offense, $1,000 subsequent. State law enforcement applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sparklers in Annapolis?
Only gold-label sparklers without chlorates or perchlorates are legal. Standard consumer sparklers with chlorates are banned.
What about professional fireworks displays?
Professional displays require permits from the State Fire Marshal. The city's July 4 display is a permitted professional event.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Annapolis

All Annapolis rules

How Annapolis compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·Compare Annapolis to another location·View the Maryland fire regulations overview

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