Owensboro, KY Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Section 10-64 states that fireworks and consumer fireworks may not be used, ignited, fired, or exploded within Owensboro city limits except as the section allows. Fireworks must be handled, stored, used, possessed, and sold in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local law. The general window for setting them off is 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but that window extends to 10:00 a.m. on December 31 through midnight on January 1, and to 10:00 a.m. through midnight on July 3rd, July 4th, and Memorial Day.

The city board of commissioners may also designate an alternate date to celebrate Independence Day when July 4th falls on an inconvenient day, with the same extended 10:00 a.m.-to-midnight window applying. No one under 18 may use, ignite, fire, or explode fireworks or the louder aerial/audible consumer fireworks defined by KRS 227.702(2) and (3), and no one may set them off within 200 feet of any structure, motor vehicle (whether operating or not), or another person. Fireworks other than consumer fireworks, including display fireworks under KRS 227.706, are prohibited at all times in the city without written approval from the city's special events committee.

Retailers selling consumer fireworks need a retail fireworks permit from the fire department under § 10-65, with fees of $1,000 for a seasonal retailer and $3,000 for a permanent retailer per location.