Chelsea, MA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Consumer Fireworks
- BANNED. MGL c. 148 §39
- Sparklers
- Also illegal in MA
- Licensed Displays
- Permitted with §39A license
- Fine (use)
- $10–$100
Summary
ALL consumer fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts under MGL c. 148 §39, including sparklers, firecrackers, Roman candles, and sky rockets. Chelsea enforces state law with no local exceptions. Only licensed professional displays permitted.
Section 39. No person shall sell, or keep or offer for sale, or have in his possession, or under his control, or use, or explode, or cause to explode, any combustible or explosive composition or substance, or any combination of such compositions or substances, or any other article, which was prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation. For the purposes of this section the word ''fireworks'' shall include compositions, substances or other articles and shall also include blank cartridges or toy cannons in which explosives are used, the type of toy balloon which requires fire underneath to propel the same, firecrackers, cherry bombs, silver salutes, M–80's, torpedoes, sky-rockets, Roman candles, sparklers, rockets, wheels, colored fires, fountains, mines, serpents, or other fireworks of like construction or any fireworks containing any explosive or flammable compound, or any tablets or other device containing any explosive substance. Whoever shall have in his possession or under his control, or whoever shall use or explode or cause to explode any fireworks in violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than ten dollars nor more than one hundred dollars.
Full Breakdown
MGL c. 148 §39 prohibits possession, sale, use, and transport of all consumer fireworks statewide. Exceptions only for toy caps (<0.25 grains explosive) and licensed professional displays (§39A). Chelsea is a densely urban city with strict enforcement. Penalties: possession/use $10–$100; sale $100–$1,000 and/or up to 1 year imprisonment.
Violations & Fines
Possession/use: $10–$100 fine. Sale: $100–$1,000 and/or up to 1 year imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are consumer fireworks legal in Chelsea?
When can I set off fireworks in Chelsea?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chelsea
How Chelsea compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·Compare Chelsea to another location·View the Massachusetts fire regulations overview
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Fireworks in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle fireworks.