Philadelphia County prohibits the discharge of consumer fireworks within most of the city due to density restrictions. PA Act 43 of 2017 legalized consumer fireworks statewide but prohibits discharge within 150 feet of occupied structures, which effectively bans them in most Philadelphia neighborhoods. Local enforcement is aggressive.
Pennsylvania Act 43 of 2017 (72 P.S. Section 9401) legalized consumer-grade (1.4G) fireworks for adults 18 and older, but includes a key restriction: fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure. Because Philadelphia is densely populated, this 150-foot rule effectively prohibits fireworks discharge in virtually all residential neighborhoods. Philadelphia Code and Mayoral executive orders reinforce enforcement. The Philadelphia Police Department and Fire Marshal actively enforce, particularly around July 4th and New Year. Philadelphia has also passed resolutions urging state legislature to repeal Act 43.
Violations of the 150-foot rule are summary offenses with fines up to $100 under state law, plus potential local code citations. Use of display fireworks (non-consumer) without permit is a misdemeanor. Causing fire damage through fireworks can result in criminal charges including reckless burning.
Philadelphia County, PA
Philadelphia Code Title 12 prohibits parking recreational vehicles, trailers, and boats on city streets for more than 24 hours. No overnight on-street RV par...
Philadelphia County, PA
Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) enforces on-street parking under Phila Code Title 12. Residential Permit Parking program covers 35+ neighborhoods. Meter...
Philadelphia County, PA
Philadelphia County does not impose routine outdoor water use restrictions. Philadelphia Water Department may issue voluntary conservation requests during dr...
Philadelphia County, PA
Philadelphia County encourages native plants for landscaping under the Green City Clean Waters plan. Zoning Code Section 14-705 requires approved plant speci...
Philadelphia County, PA
Philadelphia County limits grass and weeds to 10 inches on all residential and commercial properties under the Property Maintenance Code. Violations trigger ...
Philadelphia County, PA
Philadelphia County allows and encourages rainwater harvesting. Philadelphia Water Department offers Rain Check program with free or discounted rain barrels ...
See how Philadelphia County's fireworks rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.