Arizona fireworks restrictions

According to a Phoenix Fire Department news release, most fireworks injuries involve children. Many of the burn injuries are associated with the firework firing early, possibly causing disfiguring burns to the hands and eyes.

Most fires from fireworks occur in dry brush and grass, but homes are also vulnerable on July 4. Many of these fires are caused by careless handling of fireworks, even though though most are illegal in the City of Phoenix.

"Use or possession of fireworks is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a fine of up to $2,500 and/or six months in jail. Only licensed vendors are allowed 'controlled' fireworks displays.

Arizona State law says:

ARS 36-1602 Fireworks prohibited

A. Except as otherwise provided by this article, it is unlawful to sell, offer or expose for sale, use, explode or possess any fireworks.
B. This section shall not be construed to prohibit or restrict the manufacture or possession, by a qualified pyrotechnic expert, of aerial set pieces designed for use in pyrotechnical displays, or the display of such set pieces in accordance with the terms of this article. The governing body as defined by section 36-1601 shall determine if the expert is qualified.

Mesa Fire Department fireworks guidelines

The Mesa Fire Department issued these guidelines:

Prohibited Use:

• All fireworks are illegal in the State of Arizona, except those used in a permitted public display by a qualified pyrotechnic expert and those used in accordance with the Mesa Fire Code. Public displays in Mesa will be in accordance with the Mesa Fire Code.

• Exception – The following items are permitted per A.R.S. 36-1601:
  Toy pistols, toy canes, toy guns or other devices in which paper caps containing not more than twenty-five hundredths grains of explosive compound are used if constructed so that the hand cannot come in contact with the cap when in place for the explosion.
  Toy pistol paper caps that contain less than twenty-five hundredths grains of explosive mixture, or fixed ammunition or primers.
  Federally deregulated novelty items known as snappers, snap caps, party poppers, or glow worms that contain less than twenty-five hundredths grains of explosive compound.

Violation-Classification:
  A person caught with prohibited storage, use, and/or handling of fireworks can be charged with a Class 3 Misdemeanor, A.R.S. Section 36-1602.

Outdoor Firework Displays:
  Leave fireworks to the professionals. Restrictions on fireworks are for good reasons. They can not only cause injuries, but also start a fire.
  Outdoor events go through a process to ensure the safety of the audience as well as compliance with City of Mesa regulations.
  Outdoors events must submit an application with the City of Mesa Tax and Licensing office.
  A Mesa Fire Department Inspector reviews the site plan and conducts a field inspection.
  Inspectors also review the pyrotechnic operator’s and assistants list and evaluate the operator’s proficiency.
  Each display is analyzed for its size, complexity, and the projected attendance.
  Pre-show inspections are conducted the day of the event.
  Fire inspectors remain present for the duration of public display events.

Turning in fireworks:
  Remember that just because fire works are purchased outside of Arizona (where they might be legal) once you return to Arizona with them in your possession if you are caught you could be charged.
  Residents can go to any Mesa fire station and drop off fireworks without question.
Fireworks that are turned in to a station are turned over to authorities for proper disposal.