Rhode Island: Are fireworks legal?
Rhode Island allows ground-based and hand-held sparkling devices for people 16 and older, but aerial consumer fireworks require a permit.
State law exempts ground-based and hand-held sparkling devices, which it calls non-aerial fireworks, along with novelties, and allows their sale and use year-round for anyone at least 16. Display fireworks and aerial consumer fireworks may not be sold, possessed or set off without permits under the state fire safety code. An individual can get a local permit for aerial consumer fireworks only after earning a fire marshal certificate of competency, which includes an exam, and carrying insurance. Local fire officials enforce the rules.
Conditions
- Must be 16 or older for sparkling devices
- Permit required for aerial consumer fireworks and display fireworks
What the law says
The storage, possession, sale, transportation and use of the items in the above reference section that are not included in the definition of display fireworks and aerial consumer fireworks shall be allowed at all times throughout the state for persons at least sixteen (16) years of age. ... No person shall offer for sale at retail or at wholesale, shall possess or have under his or her control, use or explode, or cause to explode for exhibition or amusement, display fireworks or aerial consumer fireworks unless permits are obtained pursuant to this chapter and chapter 23-28.11.
Sources
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-13-1 Official · webserver.rilegislature.gov
Confirm with the state
- Agency
- Rhode Island Division of State Fire Marshal
- Website
- fire-marshal.ri.gov
How bordering states compare
- Connecticut Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyConnecticut bans fireworks except non-explosive, non-aerial sparklers and fountains, which people 16 and older may buy and use.
- Massachusetts Consumer fireworks bannedMassachusetts bans all consumer fireworks, including sparklers, for private persons.
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