WASHINGTON -- The 4th of July is right around the corner, and many people are wondering if they can set off fireworks in their backyards.
The short answer? No.
In Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, all fireworks are illegal. But other devices may be permitted depending on the county.
Washington D.C.
Any firework that explodes, including cherry bombs, roman candles, floral shells, and artillery shells are prohibited. But sparklers less than 20 inches in length, torches, cones, box fires, and fountains are allowed.
To see the full explanation, please go to the Metropolitan Police Department's website.
Maryland
Only gold-labeled sparklers, novelty items (i.e. party poppers, snap pops, snakes), and ground-based sparkler devices are legal, according to the State Fire Marshal. However, in Baltimore City, Montgomery and Prince George's counties, all fireworks are illegal. Also, ground-based sparklers are illegal in Ocean City, Harford, and Howard counties.
To see the full explanation, please go to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's website.
Virginia
Virginia prohibits firecrackers, skyrockets, torpedoes, and other fireworks which explode, travel laterally, rise into the air, or fire projectiles into the air, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry. They do allow sparklers and fountains.
To see the full explanation, please go to the Virginia Department of Forestry's website.
Some firework violations can cost up to $2,500 so make sure that what you are using this Independence Day won't cost you.
