Texas Fireworks Regulations
In Texas, fireworks sales, possession, and use are regulated. Permissible fireworks in the state fall under “1.4G fireworks” and “1.4S fireworks.” The former includes consumer fireworks such as sparklers, fountains, and certain aerial fireworks, while the latter encompasses professional display fireworks. It is illegal to sell or shoot fireworks within 100 feet of a place where flammable liquids, flammable compressed gasses, or fireworks are sold or stored. It is illegal to shoot fireworks from or towards a motor vehicle, including boats. The minimum age to buy or sell fireworks was recently changed from 12 to 16. It is illegal to shoot fireworks within 600 feet of a church, hospital, day-care center, or school.
Celebrating with Fireworks in Texas
According to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), fireworks can now be sold in the state of Texas from November 7th-15th to celebrate the Hindu Holiday of Diwali. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is India’s biggest holiday of the year. Diwali is celebrated by thousands in Texas, with San Antonio hosting one of the largest annual Diwali celebrations in America. This creates an opportunity to legally purchase fireworks for the Festival of Light celebrations!
Fireworks Safety Tips
To help you celebrate your holidays and special occasions safely using fireworks, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety offer the following safety tips:
- Always read and follow label directions.
- Always have an adult present.
Legal Aspects of Fireworks Sales in Texas
In Texas, fireworks sales, possession, and use are regulated. The state categorizes fireworks as “1.4G fireworks” for consumer use and “1.4S fireworks” for professional displays. It is illegal to sell or detonate fireworks within 100 feet of flammable liquids, gases, or stored fireworks. You must be 16 to buy or sell fireworks in Texas.
Most cities in Texas ban fireworks, but they are legal in unincorporated areas of most counties with the property owner’s permission. County officials can restrict sales of certain fireworks if drought conditions, measured by a state index, reach a critical level. Several counties have done this recently due to dry conditions. The fireworks sales season around the Fourth of July is only 11 days.
Fireworks must be detonated at least 600 feet from churches, hospitals, schools, and daycares. They cannot be shot from motor vehicles or boats. Backyard fireworks displays are risky during drought and violate many local laws. Fines for illegal fireworks can reach $2,000.