Pennsylvania Statewide Rule

Pennsylvania Consumer Fireworks Law (3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 11)

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Pennsylvania (2026)

Key Facts

Legal for: Adults 18+ (consumer 1.4G fireworks)
Governing law: 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 11 (Act 74 of 2022)
Setback: 150 feet from occupied structures
State tax: 12% plus 6% sales tax
Local option: May restrict discharge times/places
Display (1.3G): Still requires a permit

Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: PA Consumer Fireworks Law - 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 11 (Act 74 of 2022)

Summary

Consumer-grade (1.4G) fireworks are legal in Pennsylvania for adults 18 and older. Act 43 of 2017 legalized them; Act 74 of 2022 recodified the law to 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 11. A 150-foot setback from occupied structures applies, plus a 12% state fireworks tax. Municipalities may restrict discharge times and places.

§ 1104. Use of consumer fireworks. (a) Conditions.-A person who is at least 18 years of age may purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks. (b) Prohibitions.-A person may not intentionally use consumer fireworks: (1) On private property or on public property, including, but not limited to, streets, parking lots, sidewalks and parks, without the express permission of the owner or entity that controls the property. (2) Within, directed at or directed from a vehicle or building.

Source: PA Consumer Fireworks Law - 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 11 (Act 74 of 2022)View official code

Full Breakdown

Act 43 of 2017 legalized consumer-grade (1.4G) fireworks for adults 18 and older, ending the prior sparkler-only limit. Act 74 of 2022 repealed the Tax Code provisions (former 72 P.S. Section 9401 et seq.) and recodified the fireworks law at 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 11, effective September 9, 2022. Discharge is barred within 150 feet of any occupied structure or vehicle, on another's property without permission, and while impaired. A 12% state fireworks tax applies on top of the 6% sales tax. Municipalities may restrict the times, days, and places of discharge, and display (1.3G) fireworks still require a permit.

Violations & Penalties

Discharging within 150 feet of an occupied structure or on another's property is a summary offense, with fines raised to up to $500 for a first offense under Act 74 of 2022. Selling consumer fireworks without the required license carries separate, steeper penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fireworks legal in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Act 43 of 2017 legalized consumer-grade (1.4G) fireworks for adults 18 and older. You must stay 150 feet from occupied structures and may not discharge on someone else's property without permission.

Can my city ban fireworks even though state law allows them?

Cities cannot ban consumer fireworks outright, but they may restrict discharge times, days, and locations. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have enacted stricter local rules under Act 43's preserved municipal authority.

What is the fireworks tax in PA?

Pennsylvania imposes a 12% fireworks tax on consumer fireworks at the point of sale, added on top of the 6% state sales tax for a combined 18% tax burden.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.