Bowling Green, KY Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Kentucky's state fireworks law (KRS 227.700 to 227.750) legalizes consumer fireworks for sale and use statewide, with KRS 227.717 expressly authorizing cities and counties to restrict the dates and times of discharge. Bowling Green has exercised that authority through Section 15-5.04 of its Code of Ordinances (Sale and Use of Fireworks), adopted by Ordinance BG2011-51. The local rules: fireworks may only be used between noon and 10:00 p.m. on June 27 through July 3 and on July 5, and between noon and 11:00 p.m. on July 4. Any other date requires a Special Discharge Permit from the Bowling Green Fire Department; the permit has no fee but the application must be filed no later than 15 days before the proposed date, and if granted is valid for a 4-hour window between noon and 9:00 p.m. on that date. Fireworks may not be sold or given to anyone under 18, and only persons 18 or older may ignite them. The user must be at least 200 feet from any structure, vehicle, or other person before lighting a firework. Fireworks may not be discharged on public property, including public roadways. Storage and retail sale of fireworks must be in a stand-alone structure with at least 50 feet of separation from adjacent buildings; sales in multi-tenant buildings are prohibited, and zoning approval, inspection, and a business license are required. The Bowling Green Fire Department reinforces these rules in its public Fireworks Safety guidance.