Fireworks sales and use in unincorporated Travis County are governed by TX Occupations Code Ch. 2154. Commissioners Court routinely restricts or prohibits certain fireworks (missiles with fins, skyrockets with sticks) during drought under HSC 352.051. Legal periods: June 24-July 4 and Dec 20-Jan 1. Austin city limits ban all consumer fireworks.
Travis County Commissioners Court has authority under Texas Health and Safety Code 352.051 to restrict aerial fireworks (missiles with fins, skyrockets with sticks) when KBDI drought index exceeds 575. This restriction has been enacted nearly every summer since the 2011 wildfire season. Ground-based 1.4G consumer fireworks (fountains, sparklers, smoke devices, Roman candles) remain legal in unincorporated areas during the two state-permitted windows. Sales are restricted to licensed stands outside city ETJs. Austin, Pflugerville, Lago Vista, and Lakeway prohibit all consumer fireworks within city limits year-round. The County Fire Marshal coordinates with ESDs and TCSO for enforcement during peak periods.
Illegal fireworks during restriction: Class C misdemeanor, up to 500 dollar fine. Starting wildfire: criminal mischief charges, civil liability for suppression and damages (potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars). Sale without permit: Class B misdemeanor.
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