Pennsylvania Act 43 of 2017 legalized consumer-grade (1.4G) fireworks for adults 18+, replacing the prior ban that limited residents to sparklers. State law imposes a 150-foot setback from occupied structures and a 12% state fireworks tax. Municipalities may further restrict discharge times and locations.
Act 43 of 2017 (72 P.S. §9401 et seq.) repealed the 1939 Pennsylvania Fireworks Law that had limited residents to sparklers and novelty items. Effective October 2017, Pennsylvania adults aged 18 and older may purchase and discharge consumer-grade (1.4G) fireworks including aerial shells, Roman candles, bottle rockets, and firecrackers. State law imposes a strict 150-foot setback from any occupied structure, vehicle, or third-party property and prohibits discharge on someone else's property without permission. Discharge while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances is prohibited. The state imposes a 12% fireworks tax on top of the 6% sales tax, collected at point of sale. Importantly, Act 43 preserves municipal authority to further restrict the times, days, and locations of fireworks discharge — many cities including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have enacted stricter rules. Display fireworks (1.3G) continue to require a permit from the local municipality or PA State Police.
Discharging fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure or on another's property is a summary offense with fines up to $100 plus court costs. Selling without a Consumer Fireworks Facility license is a third-degree misdemeanor with fines up to $5,000. Local municipal violations may add separate fines. Discharge while intoxicated may trigger additional disorderly conduct charges (18 Pa.C.S. §5503).
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