Bristol County, MA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- MGL Ch. 148 §39: all fireworks illegal
- Includes Sparklers
- Yes: total ban statewide
- Penalty (Possession)
- Up to $100 fine and/or 1 year
- Enforcement
- Local fire departments / PD
Summary
All consumer fireworks including sparklers are illegal throughout Massachusetts under MGL Ch. 148 §39. This applies to all of Bristol County. Only licensed professionals may conduct public displays with permits from the local fire department and State Fire Marshal.
No person shall sell, or keep or offer for sale, or have in his possession, or under his control, or use, or explode, or cause to explode, any combustible or explosive composition or substance, or any combination of such compositions or substances, or any other article, which was prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation.
Full Breakdown
Massachusetts law (MGL c.148 §39) prohibits the sale, possession, and use of ALL consumer fireworks, including sparklers. MA is one of the strictest states in the nation for fireworks regulation. Even ground-based devices that are legal in neighboring states are prohibited. Only professionally licensed displays with State Fire Marshal permits are legal. Many MA residents purchase fireworks in NH (where they are legal) and bring them back, which is also illegal.
Violations & Fines
Possession or use: fine up to $100 and/or imprisonment up to 1 year. Sale: $100-$1,000 fine and/or 1 year imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are consumer fireworks legal in Bristol County?
When can I set off fireworks in Bristol County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bristol County
How Bristol County compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·Compare Bristol County to another location·View the Massachusetts fire regulations overview
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