Stay Legal: Fireworks Laws Hoosiers Need To Know

Last updated on Friday, June 30, 2017

(UNDATED) - With fireworks season underway, the State Fire Marshal is reminding all Hoosiers to be aware of fireworks laws when celebrating.

"Hoosiers using fireworks this summer need to be both safe and legal when doing so," said State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson. "Responsible use of fireworks will help contribute to safe and enjoyable celebration."

Both fireworks users and fireworks retailers selling to the public need to abide by the law. Retailers must hold a permit through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security's Fire and Building Safety Division, which is overseen by the State Fire Marshal. Retailers may only sell 1.4G and Section 8(a) fireworks, and only to those 18 years of age and older.

Hoosiers should carefully review the following laws before setting off fireworks:

When Can Fireworks Be Used?

Throughout the Year:

Throughout the year it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., but this may be limited further by local ordinances. Citizens should check with local officials.

State Holidays:

On state holidays it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to midnight, but this may be limited further by local ordinances.

Specially Designated Times:

The times on the following dates are protected for consumer use of fireworks and may not be prohibited by local ordinance:

June 29-July 3: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset;
July 4: from 10 a.m. to midnight.
July 5-July 9: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset; and
December 31: from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.

Please note that the times not listed on these dates may still be limited by local ordinances.

Where Can Fireworks Be Used?

Fireworks may only be set off:
On the user's property,
On the property of someone who has consented to the use of fireworks, or
At locally identified special discharge locations. Not all communities designate a special discharge location.
Please note that a person who sets off fireworks, even in a legal location, may still be held liable for any resulting injuries or damage caused to another person or property.

What Can Happen If Fireworks Laws Are Broken?

There are penalties that come with breaking the laws regarding fireworks. Here are a few examples:
A person using fireworks anywhere other than the three previously listed places could face a maximum fine of $500 per infraction.
Damaging someone else's property with fireworks could result in a fine of $5,000 as well as one year imprisonment. Restitution costs to the property owner may also be assessed.
Someone recklessly, knowingly or intentionally using fireworks and causing the serious injury or death of someone else could face imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000.
Anyone under the age of 18 possessing or using fireworks without the presence of an adult could face a fine of $500 per infraction.

For more fireworks safety tips, visit www.GetPrepared.in.gov. Contact local officials for more information on local ordinances and fireworks limitations.

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com

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