FOLLOW US

Pennsylvania lawmakers made a number of changes to the state’s fireworks law in October. The amendments were part of House Bill 542, a revenue legislation signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf.

Many believe that the changes will result to a booming New Year’s Eve in Pennsylvania. Residents will no longer have to drive out of state and purchase high-octane fireworks.

Joyce Knepp, the owner of Kneppy’s Fireworks in Clearfield County, said the new regulation will have a great impact to them.

Brian Shaub, the co-owner of Keystone Fireworks, told Lancaster Online that he is excited about the new fireworks law. According to him, for the first time Pennsylvanians can “buy anything they see” at his store and “go light it off any time of the day or night legally.”

The law added a 12% fireworks tax on top of the state’s 6% sales tax. The Associated Press estimated that the state will generate $2.6 million in new licensing fees from fireworks sellers this year and $9.6 million next year.

Consumer fireworks

Under the new fireworks law, Pennsylvania residents (at least 18 years of age) may buy, sell, and use consumer fireworks. However, they cannot ignite or discharge consumer fireworks on a private or public property without permission from the owner. They cannot use it within 150 feet of an occupied structure.

Additionally, they cannot throw consumer fireworks on building or motor vehicle. A person under the influence or alcohol, a controlled substance or drug cannot use consumer

Consumer fireworks include firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and other products with combustible compositions. These products must comply with the requirements of Consumer Products Safety Commission in 16 CFR and other regulation on consumer fireworks.

The annual license fees to sell consumer fireworks will be as follows:

• $7,500 for a location up to 10,000 square feet;
• $10,000 for a location greater than 10,000 and up to 15,000 square feet;
• $20,000 for a location greater than 15,000 square feet; and
• $3,000 for a temporary structure.

Large display fireworks

On the other hand, the large display fireworks normally seen during community celebrations are limited to professional pyro technicians.

The new fireworks law requires municipalities to issue permit for large display fireworks to a person who is 21 years or older. In addition, municipalities shall require an adequate bond (not less than $50,000) from the permit holder.

The law allows the use large fireworks for the following:

• agricultural purposes in connection with the raising of crops and the protection of crops from bird and animal damage
• signal purposes or illumination by railroads or other transportation agencies
• quarrying or for blasting or other industrial use
• sale or use of blank cartridges for a show or theater
• signal or ceremonial purposes in athletics or sports