Montgomery County, PA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Prior to October 2017, Pennsylvania law restricted residents to ground-based novelties. Act 43 of 2017 (signed October 30, 2017) reclassified consumer fireworks (Class C, including aerial devices, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers containing up to 50 milligrams of explosive material) as legal for purchase and use by Pennsylvania residents 18 and older. The state imposes a 12% Consumer Fireworks Tax in addition to the 6% sales tax. Statewide use restrictions in 35 P.S. §1273 and §1277 prohibit discharge: (1) within 150 feet of an occupied structure; (2) on any public or private property without express permission of the property owner; (3) from or toward any motor vehicle or building; (4) while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or other drugs. After widespread complaints during 2018-2021, the General Assembly passed Act 74 of 2022, which clarified municipal authority to enact local ordinances regulating the hours, dates, and locations of consumer fireworks use beyond the state minimums. Many Montgomery County municipalities have since adopted ordinances limiting fireworks to specific holidays (July 2-4, December 31-January 1) and certain hours (typically 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. or 11 p.m.). Display fireworks (Class B / 1.3G) require a permit issued by the municipality and a licensed pyrotechnician.