All consumer fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts, including Somerville. Possession, sale, and use are criminal offenses with fines and confiscation by the Somerville Fire Department.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 148 Section 39 prohibits the possession, sale, and use of all consumer fireworks by private individuals. This includes sparklers, firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and aerial shells. Massachusetts is one of the only states with a complete ban. Penalties under MGL c.148 s.39 include fines up to 100 dollars for possession, up to 1,000 dollars or one year imprisonment for sale, and confiscation of all fireworks. The Somerville Fire Department and Somerville Police actively enforce the ban, particularly around July 4th. Only licensed professional pyrotechnicians may conduct displays, and only with a state-issued permit and municipal approval.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Somerville, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle fireworks.
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