Arlington Heights prohibits the use, sale, and possession of consumer fireworks within village limits, consistent with Illinois state law. Illinois is one of the strictest states for fireworks regulation, banning most consumer fireworks including firecrackers, bottle rockets, and Roman candles. Only novelty items such as sparklers, snakes, and smoke devices are legal. Arlington Heights Police enforce fireworks violations, especially around the Fourth of July.
Under both Illinois state law (Public Act 099-0801, the Pyrotechnic Use Act) and Arlington Heights Municipal Code, consumer fireworks are illegal. Illinois bans the sale, purchase, possession, and use of most consumer fireworks including firecrackers, bottle rockets, aerial shells, Roman candles, and mortars. Legal items are limited to novelty devices: sparklers (handheld, non-aerial), snakes and glow worms, smoke devices, trick noisemakers, and toy caps. Even sparklers have safety considerations — they burn at over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. The village allows professional fireworks displays conducted by licensed operators with village permits and fire department oversight. Arlington Heights hosts an official Fourth of July celebration with professional fireworks. Arlington Heights Police increase enforcement around Independence Day and New Year's Eve. Violations carry fines and potential criminal charges under state law, which classifies fireworks possession as a Class A misdemeanor.
Possession or use of illegal fireworks is a Class A misdemeanor under Illinois law, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. Village ordinance violations carry additional fines starting at $75. Arlington Heights PD at (847) 368-5300 actively enforces fireworks laws around holidays.
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