Evanston prohibits the sale, possession, and use of all consumer fireworks within city limits. Illinois state law (425 ILCS 30) bans consumer fireworks statewide, and Evanston enforces this prohibition strictly. Only sparklers and novelty items are permitted.
Under both Illinois state law (Pyrotechnics Use Act, 425 ILCS 30) and Evanston City Code, all consumer fireworks including firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, mortars, and aerial fireworks are illegal to sell, possess, or discharge. The only exceptions are novelty items such as sparklers (held in hand), snakes, glow worms, smoke devices, and trick noisemakers. Professional fireworks displays require a permit from the Evanston Fire Department and must be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnics operator. The city hosts a professional July 4th fireworks display at the lakefront. Enforcement is especially active around the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. Report illegal fireworks use to Evanston PD at (847) 866-5000.
Possession or use of illegal fireworks is a Class A misdemeanor under Illinois law, carrying fines of up to $2,500 and up to one year in jail. Evanston may also impose municipal fines of $100 to $750. Seized fireworks are confiscated and destroyed.
Evanston, IL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
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