Centre Square Fire Company Station 33
Protecting our community since 1913

FIREWORKS FAQs

Q: Can I use fireworks in Pennsylvania?
A: State law prohibits the use of Consumer and Display Fireworks in Pennsylvania without a permit. Items defined as “ground and hand-held sparkling devices”, “novelties” and “toy caps” in American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) Standard 87-1 are not currently regulated by State Law; therefore, their sale and use are permissible. These “non-fireworks” are the only types allowed to be sold from tents, stands, convenience stores, retail establishments and other various outlets not licensed by the Department of Agriculture. (Title 35, Chapter 13A, Sections 1271 & 1275)

Q: What precautions should people take when using permitted novelty items or sparklers?
A: It’s best to leave any type of fireworks to the experts. But if you decide to use permitted novelty items or sparklers:

• Always read and follow the instructions carefully.
• Use items outside in an open area.
• A responsible adult should supervise all activities.
• Only light one item at a time.
• Place used items in a bucket of water prior to properly disposing of them.

Q: What else should I know about fireworks?
A: Cherry bombs, M-80s, M-100s, silver salutes and other illegal fireworks are all extremely dangerous. In addition, fireworks constructed from mail order kits are illegal and dangerous to assemble or use. Never attempt to make your own fireworks or tamper with fireworks.

Q: Can I buy regular fireworks – not sparklers or novelty items -- under any conditions?
A: This answer depends on whether or not you are a Pennsylvania resident. 

• Pennsylvania residents: May purchase Consumer Fireworks only with a display permit issued by the municipality wherein the display will take place.
• Non-residents: An amendment to the Fireworks Law, effective November 30, 2004, makes it legal, upon proof of out-of-state residency status, to purchase Consumer Fireworks from a facility licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture provided the Consumer Fireworks are transported directly out of state by the seller or purchaser. (Title 35, Chapter 13A, Section 1275)

"Duty Calls"

I have no ambition in this world but one, and that is to be a fireman. The position may, in the eyes of some, appear to be a lowly one; but we who know the work which the fireman has to do believe that his is a noble calling. There is an adage which says that, "Nothing can be destroyed except by fire." We strive to preserve from destruction the wealth of the world, which is the product of the industry of men, necessary for the comfort of both the rich and the poor. We are defenders from fires of the art which has beautified the world, the product of the genius of men and the means of refinement of mankind. But, above all, our proudest endeavor is to save lives of men - the work of God Himself. Under the impulse of such thoughts, the nobility of the occupation thrills us and stimulates us to deeds of daring, even at the supreme sacrifice. Such considerations may not strike the average mind, but they are sufficient to fill to the limit our ambition in life and to make us serve the general purpose of human society.

Edward F. Croker
Chief
Fire Department of New York
1898-1911