Maryland Fireworks Law and Consumer Restrictions

Under the Maryland Public Safety Article, fireworks that explode, rise into the air, or move about the ground are prohibited for consumer use. The State Fire Marshal classifies legal consumer fireworks as ground-based sparkling devices, including handheld sparklers, fountains, snakes, and party poppers. Bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, and aerial shells are illegal without a professional pyrotechnic operator permit. Counties and Baltimore City may further restrict or ban even ground-based devices, but cannot legalize what state law prohibits. Permits for public displays must be obtained from the Office of the State Fire Marshal under COMAR 29.06.01.

Possession or use of illegal fireworks is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $250 per violation and confiscation. Larger violations can carry imprisonment.