York County, PA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- PA Act 74 (72 P.S. Sec. 9404)
- Minimum age
- 18 years old
- Distance rule
- 150 ft from occupied structure
- County set here
- No; state statute controls
- In county parks
- Prohibited without permission
Summary
Pennsylvania's Act 74 of 2022 governs fireworks statewide, not York County. Adults 18+ may buy and use consumer (1.4G) fireworks, but never within 150 feet of an occupied structure, on public property, or on another person's property without permission.
A person who is at least 18 years of age... may purchase, possess, and use consumer fireworks. It is unlawful to ignite or discharge consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure.
Full Breakdown
York County itself sets no fireworks ordinance for residents; the rule is the state Consumer Fireworks statute (72 P.S. Sec. 9404). It allows anyone 18 or older to purchase, possess, and use Class C consumer fireworks (firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets), but bans discharge within 150 feet of a building or vehicle, on public or private property without the owner's permission, or while impaired. Municipalities may add stricter rules, and York County's Board of Commissioners can ban all fireworks during a drought-driven burn ban. In county parks, fireworks are separately prohibited without the Director's written permission.
Violations & Fines
Discharging within 150 feet of a structure or while impaired is a summary offense; municipal police and PA State Police enforce. Fines and confiscation apply; during a county burn ban, all fireworks are banned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set off fireworks in my York County backyard?
Are fireworks banned during a burn ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in York County
How York County compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·Compare York County to another location·View the Pennsylvania fire regulations overview
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