New Jersey: Are fireworks legal?
New Jersey allows sparklers, ground-based sparkling devices and novelties for people 16 and older, but bans aerial and exploding fireworks.
A 2017 law legalized handheld and ground-based sparkling devices that don't explode or fly, along with novelties such as snakes, smoke devices and party poppers. Firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, aerial cakes and other aerial fireworks remain illegal except at permitted public displays. Buyers must be 16 or older. Cities can't add their own rules for these items, though storage and sale must meet fire code standards.
Conditions
- Must be 16 or older
- Sparkling devices limited to 75 grams per tube or 500 grams for multiple tubes
- Aerial and exploding fireworks only at permitted public displays
What the law says
(2) sparkling devices and novelties as defined in R.S.21:2-2 if the person is 16 years of age or older. Sparkling devices and novelties, including their sale or use, shall not be subject to further regulation by a municipality pursuant to R.S.40:48-1,
Sources
- N.J.S.A. 21:3-2 Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com
- P.L. 2017, c. 92 (amending R.S. 21:2-2, 21:2-3, 21:3-2) Official · pub.njleg.state.nj.us
- NJ Division of Fire Safety: Ground based sparkling devices and novelties are now legal (flyer) Official · nj.gov
Confirm with the state
- Agency
- New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Division of Fire Safety
- Website
- nj.gov
How bordering states compare
- Delaware Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyDelaware allows only sparklers, non-aerial ground sparkling devices and novelties, and only on July 4, Diwali, December 31 and January 1.
- New York Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyNew York allows only sparklers and fountains, and only outside New York City and counties that banned them; aerial and exploding fireworks are illegal.
- Pennsylvania Aerial fireworks allowedPennsylvania lets anyone 18 or older buy, possess and use consumer fireworks, including aerial ones, with distance and permission rules.
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