Fireworks Laws
WEST MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
FIREWORKS LAWS & SAFETY GUIDE
Know Before You Light
🎆 Consumer Fireworks Are Legal in Pennsylvania for Adults 18+
But there are important state and township rules you must follow.
🚫 WHERE FIREWORKS CANNOT BE USED
150-FOOT SAFETY RULE
You may NOT ignite or discharge consumer fireworks:
🏠 Within 150 feet of any occupied structure
🚗 Within 150 feet of any occupied vehicle
🐄 Within 150–300 feet of livestock or animal housing facilities without proper advance notice
PROPERTY OWNER PERMISSION REQUIRED
You must have the express permission of the property owner before using fireworks on any public or private property.
❌ Public parks
❌ School property
❌ Business property
❌ Neighbor's property
Without permission is illegal.
🚔 DANGEROUS AND ILLEGAL ACTS
Never:
❌ Throw fireworks at people
❌ Shoot fireworks toward buildings
❌ Shoot fireworks toward vehicles
❌ Fire fireworks from a motor vehicle
❌ Use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
⏰ WHEN CAN FIREWORKS BE USED?
WEST MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP HOURS
Regular Days
🕙 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
July 2, July 3, July 4
🕙 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
December 31
🕙 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Memorial Day Weekend
🕙 No township time restrictions
Labor Day Weekend
🕙 No township time restrictions
🎆 WHAT TYPE OF FIREWORKS ARE YOU USING?
CONSUMER FIREWORKS
Fireworks intended for use by the general public that comply with federal Consumer Product Safety Commission standards and APA 87-1 requirements.
Examples include:
- Firecrackers
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial repeaters
- Cakes and fountains
Not included:
- Sparklers
- Hand-held sparkling devices
- Novelties
- Toy caps
(West Manchester Township Code §71-2)
PROFESSIONAL DISPLAY FIREWORKS
Large fireworks intended solely for use by licensed professional pyrotechnicians and requiring a Township permit.
Display fireworks include:
- Salutes containing more than 130 mg of explosive material
- Aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic composition
- Large display pieces classified as UN0333, UN0334, or UN0335
🚫 Cannot be used by the general public
✓ Township permit required
✓ Competent operator required
✓ Insurance required
✓ Fire Department coverage required
(West Manchester Township Code §71-2 and §71-4)
MYTH vs FACT
MYTH
"If I bought it legally, I can use it anywhere."
FACT
Even legally purchased consumer fireworks cannot be discharged:
- Within 150 feet of occupied structures or vehicles
- Without property owner permission
- While under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Outside permitted Township hours
SPARKLERS
⚠️ SPARKLERS ARE DIFFERENT
Ground and hand-held sparkling devices, novelties, and toy caps are not classified as consumer fireworks under Township Code and are generally permitted under Pennsylvania law.
🎇 DISPLAY FIREWORKS ARE DIFFERENT
Large professional fireworks displays require:
✓ Township permit
✓ Approved competent operator
✓ Insurance
✓ Fire Department coverage
✓ Advance application
Professional display fireworks may not be used without Township approval.
🔥 FIREWORKS DURING BURN BANS
A declared burn ban may affect the use of fireworks.
Always check current local conditions before using fireworks.
💰 PENALTIES
Consumer Fireworks Violations
First Offense
Up to $500 Fine
Subsequent Offense (within 3 years)
Up to $1,000 Fine
Unauthorized Display Fireworks
Up to $1,000 Fine
and possible imprisonment.
✔ FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
Keep water nearby.
Keep spectators at a safe distance.
Never relight a malfunctioning firework.
Dispose of used fireworks properly.
Supervise children at all times.
Leave pets indoors whenever possible.
QUICK CHECKLIST
✅ Age 18 or older
✅ Property owner permission
✅ More than 150 feet from occupied structures and vehicles
✅ Not under the influence
✅ Within legal hours
✅ Following Township regulations
Questions?
West Manchester Township Police Department
📍 380 East Berlin Road
West Manchester Township, PA
☎ Non-Emergency: (717) 792-9514
🚨 Emergency: 911
Enjoy fireworks responsibly.
Respect your neighbors. Protect your community. Stay safe.
