Consumer fireworks are legal in Franklin County under Ohio HB 172 (2022), but Columbus and several townships have opted out of discharge under ORC 3743.45. Where discharge is allowed, use is limited to specific state holidays between 4 PM and 11 PM, purchasers must be 18 or older.
Ohio HB 172, effective July 1, 2022, legalized discharge of 1.4G consumer fireworks on designated holidays statewide: July 3-5, December 31 through January 1, Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Diwali, Juneteenth, Memorial Day weekend, and Labor Day weekend. The law permits political subdivisions to opt out by passing a resolution. The City of Columbus opted out and continues to prohibit consumer fireworks discharge within city limits under Columbus City Code 2501.13. Several Franklin County townships including Washington, Sharon, and Plain have passed opt-out resolutions; Jefferson, Truro, and others allow discharge per state default. Novelties such as sparklers, snakes, and snappers remain legal year-round statewide. Purchase requires state ID showing age 18+ and is permitted only at state-licensed retailers.
In Columbus, illegal discharge is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a 1,000 dollar fine. In opt-in townships, discharge outside designated holidays or hours is a minor misdemeanor with fines up to 150 dollars. Causing injury or property damage elevates charges and creates civil liability.
Franklin County, OH
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See how Franklin County's fireworks rules stack up against other locations.
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