Fourth of July Firework Laws in Illinois

The Fourth of July is quickly approaching, which means celebrations are sure to ensue. With that being said, many are familiar with fireworks and their tie to the holiday. However, some may not realize or understand the laws regarding fireworks in the state of Illinois. It goes without saying that our Independence Day is a day worth celebrating. Therefore, you will want to know the laws involved with fireworks to avoid any potential trouble.

Date: June 24, 2021

By: Prime Law Group, LLC

Illegal Fireworks in Illinois

In short, there are no fireworks that are legal in the state of Illinois. In Illinois, fireworks are regulated at three different levels, federal, state, and local. Therefore, the exact laws involved with fireworks depend on where you live. Specifically, the reason fireworks are regulated is in order to keep people safe. “The Pyrotechnic Use Act (“PUA”) in Illinois bans the sale, possession, and use of all “consumer fireworks.”(Illinoislegalaid) In addition, cherry bombs, M-80s, and some firecrackers are banned. To clarify, M-80s, cherry bombs, and all other big ones, have been banned in all 50 states.

 

Legal "Fireworks"

To begin, the “fireworks” that are legal in Illinois are not actual fireworks. Instead, they are called consumer fireworks. “Consumer fireworks” are considered less dangerous than things like M-80s for example. Though you likely will not get in any trouble for using consumer fireworks, local governments can choose to ban these as well. Below are listed the acceptable fireworks to use on Fourth of July.

  • Sparklers
  • Some small-cap guns
  • Snake or glow worm pellets
  • Smoke devices
  • Trick noisemakers (known as party poppers)
  • Booby traps
  • Snappers
  • Trick matches
  • Cigarette loads
  • Auto burglar alarms 
           

Penalties for Using Fireworks

The penalties for using fireworks will likely depend on where you live. In general, a person who violates the Pyrotechnic Use Act, can receive up to 2,500 dollars in fines. Also, if you are found guilty, you could end up spending up to a year in jail. In conclusion, you will want to take time to understand the laws regarding fireworks. Again, where you live plays a big role into the penalties with using fireworks. Lastly, everyone stay safe, have fun, and have a wonderful 4th of July.

Source:

Illinoislegalaid.com