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Guide to using fireworks in the Valley

Posted at 1:47 PM, Jul 02, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-02 16:47:38-04

PHOENIX — If you’re planning to light fireworks for your Fourth of July celebration, we made it easy for you and rounded up safety guidelines and regulations to follow.

Arizona has a new law that simplifies firework usage statewide – meaning all cities and towns must abide to the same rule this year. The law regulates when fireworks can be bought, sold and used.

The law does not apply to novelty items such as sparklers, party poppers, smoke candles and ground spinners. Basically, any firework that stays on the ground is legal within safe perimeters.

If the firework shoots into the air, a fine of $1,000 will be issued for prohibited use. And if you’re planning to light your fireworks before and after the permissible dates, expect to pay the same fine.

The new law permits the sale of fireworks between May 20 – July 6, but you can’t use the fireworks until June 24.  

Firework use is permitted across the valley under safety regulations:

-Don’t smoke near fireworks.

-Always keep an eye on the little ones.

-Be cautious if lighting fireworks in windy conditions.

-Have a bucket of water ready or be near a hose incase of a spark igniting.

-Stand at least 15ft. away after lighting the firework.

-Stay away from dry bush, houses or anything flammable.

In case you didn’t know, Fire Departments throughout the valley will accept your used fireworks (legal and illegal) to safely dispose of them in a controlled environment.

Be sure to check out Arizona’s Department of Forestry and Fire Management ‘fire restrictions’ for tips and tricks on how to stay safe this holiday.