Only ground-based sparkling devices (sparklers, fountains, snakes, smoke items) are legal in Winston-Salem under NCGS 14-410. All aerial fireworks, firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets, and mortars are illegal statewide and the city cannot authorize them.
North Carolina has one of the most restrictive fireworks statutes in the Southeast. NCGS 14-410 through 14-415 permit only non-aerial, non-explosive pyrotechnic devices: wire and wood sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, snakes, glow worms, smoke devices, and trick noisemakers. Anything that flies, explodes, or travels more than a short distance along the ground is banned. The city of Winston-Salem cannot expand what is legal, though it may add local use restrictions. Residents who want aerial displays must attend permitted public shows. Winston-Salem Fire Department responds to complaints, especially around July 4 and New Year. Possession or sale of illegal fireworks is a Class 2 misdemeanor (up to 60 days jail, $1,000 fine per NCGS 14-415).
Possession/use of illegal aerial fireworks: Class 2 misdemeanor. Sellers face Class 2 misdemeanor plus product seizure. Fires caused by fireworks: civil cost recovery from WSFD.
Winston-Salem, NC
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