Maryland Statewide Rule
Maryland Fireworks Law and Consumer Restrictions
Key Facts
- Statute
- Public Safety 10-101 et seq.
- Legal Devices
- Ground-based sparklers only
- Aerial Fireworks
- Illegal for consumers
- Authority
- State Fire Marshal
- Local Override
- Counties may ban further
Summary
Maryland Public Safety Article Section 10-101 et seq. classifies most aerial and exploding fireworks as illegal for consumer use statewide. Only ground-based sparkling devices like sparklers, fountains, and snakes are legal without a permit, with stricter rules in some counties.
(a) Unless the person holds a permit issued under this subtitle, a person may not: (1) discharge fireworks; or (2) possess fireworks: (i) with intent to discharge or allow the discharge of the fireworks in violation of this subtitle; or (ii) for the purpose of disposing or selling the fireworks to a person for use or discharge without a permit, if a permit is required by this subtitle. (b) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a person may not sell fireworks to another person without a permit issued under this subtitle.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Penalties
Possession or use of illegal fireworks is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $250 per violation and confiscation. Larger violations can carry imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bottle rockets and firecrackers legal in Maryland?
Can my county ban sparklers entirely?
Sources
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