Maryland State Fireworks Laws
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MARYLAND CONSUMER FIREWORKS |
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| Specifically permitted | Sparklers containing no chlorates or perchlorates, ground based sparkling devices that are non-aerial non-explosive, and are labeled in accordance with the requirements of CPSC. Paper wrapped snappers containing less than 3/100 grains of explosive composition, and snakes that contain no mercury and are not regulated by DOT. Note: retailers must submit products for testing and approval to State Fire Marshal’s Office prior to sale. |
| Specifically prohibited | All others |
| Consumer Fireworks Retail Sales Requirements |
Only those wholesale/distributor companies that register their products with the State Fire Marshal to be wholesaled/distributed in the state will be allowed to wholesale/distribute their products to retail outlets in Maryland. All retail outlets must conform to the fire prevention codes for the state regarding ground based sparkling devices (Title 29, Department of State Police, Subtitle 06, Fire Prevention Commission.) Consumer fireworks are illegal to retail or use in Town of BelAir (Hartford County), Town of Ocean City (Worcester County), Baltimore City, and the following counties: Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s. Companies/individuals should contact local government for all other counties prior to wholesaling/distributing, retailing, or using consumer fireworks. The local government may require additional permits or fees. |
| Age to purchase | 16 years |
| DISPLAY FIREWORKS | |
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Display Permit |
Apply to State Fire Marshal at least 10 days before display date. $50 fee per display. A late fee of $50 per display for applications submitted less than 10 days from the date of the display(s). Display permits are needed for outdoor displays, as well as proximate audience displays. |
| Insurance | Required. Minimum $25,000 for injury of one person, $50,000 for more than one person; $10,000 property damage. Workman’s comp or approved accident insurance required. The policy or certificate shall provide that the coverage may not be canceled without at least 30 days notice to the State Fire Marshal. The State of Maryland shall be named as an insured in the contract of insurance. |
| Operator | State license required. $150 fee for a 3 year permit. Apply to State Fire Marshal, minimum age 21 years. Lead operator shall complete & pass the Maryland Fireworks Shooters Test. All displays must be in accordance with NFPA 1123, which is incorporated by reference. |
| MANUFACTURE, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION | Permit required to store display fireworks for licensed displays. Storage areas must be approved by State Fire Marshal and in accordance with NFPA Standard 1123, which is incorporated by reference. $150 fee for a 3 year storage permit. Storage, handling, and sale of consumer fireworks is governed by MD State Fire Prevention Code (COMAR 29.06.01.09) previously referenced from NFPA 1124. |
| LICENSING | Manufacturing license required: $750 annual fee. |
| REGISTRATION | Any manufacturer or wholesaler who stores, handles, possesses, or transports rockets mounted on a stick or wire for any purpose outside the state must register annually with the State Fire Marshal. Applications received before May 31, valid for 1 year. |
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ENFORCING AUTHORITY |
Maryland Department of State Police https://mdsp.maryland.gov/firemarshal/Pages/StateFireMarshal.aspx |
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LAW NUMBER |
Public Safety Article 10 |