Shoreline, WA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Chapter 9.15, effective since October 30, 1998, makes it unlawful under § 9.15.020(A) for any person to sell, possess, use, transfer, discharge, ignite or explode any fireworks within Shoreline, covering both common fireworks (retail items like firecrackers and salutes) and special fireworks (exhibition-grade display fireworks) as defined in § 9.15.010. The only carve-outs are duly authorized public displays and duly authorized religious or private-organization use of common fireworks such as firecrackers, salutes and chasers, and both require a state license and a city permit under § 9.15.020(A)(1)-(2).

Trick and novelty devices under WAC 212-17-030 and special effects regulated under the Uniform Fire Code are exempted entirely under § 9.15.020(B). Permit applications go to the city's development services department at least 30 days before the event under § 9.15.030(A), the local fire official inspects and can impose added conditions or revoke a permit under § 9.15.030(B), and RCW 70.77.311(2)(d) bars the city from charging a fee for the permit. Permits are nontransferable and good only for the specific authorized event under § 9.15.030(D).

Penalties in § 9.15.040 treat each unlawful sale, use, discharge or ignition of common fireworks as a separate misdemeanor, with a third violation within any three-month period becoming a gross misdemeanor, while unlawfully possessed common fireworks are subject to confiscation and up to a $50 fine.