Wisconsin · WI · Home & property
Wisconsin: Are fireworks legal?
Sparklers and ground fireworks only
Wisconsin allows sparklers, fountains and similar ground items, but anything that explodes or flies requires a local user's permit.
Wisconsin law excludes from 'fireworks' sparklers up to 36 inches, cylindrical and cone fountains, ground spinners, smoke devices, toy snakes, caps and confetti poppers, so these are legal without a permit. All other fireworks need a user's permit from the mayor, village president or town chair where they will be used, and permits may not go to minors. Cities, villages, towns and counties may ban or restrict even the exempt items.
Conditions
- User's permit from the local mayor, village president or town chair for anything beyond exempt items
- Permits not issued to minors
- Local ordinances may be stricter
What the law says
No person may possess or use fireworks without a user's permit from the mayor of the city, president of the village or chairperson of the town
Sources
- Wis. Stat. 167.10 Official · docs.legis.wisconsin.gov
Confirm with the state
- Agency
- Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
- Phone
- (608) 266-2112
- Website
- dsps.wi.gov
How bordering states compare
- Illinois Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyIllinois bans consumer fireworks except sparklers and novelties, unless an adult gets a local consumer display permit and completes approved training.
- Iowa Aerial fireworks allowedIowa allows adults 18 and older to buy and use consumer fireworks, including aerial ones, during set summer and winter periods.
- Michigan Aerial fireworks allowedMichigan allows consumer fireworks, including aerial ones, but local governments may limit when they can be set off.
- Minnesota Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyMinnesota allows sparklers, fountains and other non-aerial, non-explosive items, but bans fireworks that explode or fly.