While the National Park Service Fireworks show on the National Mall draws in crowds from around the country, there's something to be said for setting off your own mini pyro-technic display on the sidewalk.
Georgetowners wishing to use fireworks in the District should know there are a few simple rules for what DC says is illegal: Fireworks that move, explode or emit a spark or flame greater than 12 feet.
If you need more guidance the Metropolitan Police Department offers a detailed list of what is and is not legal below. For more information see the
The following items are allowed:
- Toy paper caps containing not more than twenty-five hundredths (0.25) of a grain of explosive composition per cap;
- Sparklers not more than 20 inches (50mm) in length;
- Torches, cones;
- Box fires, fountains;
- Dip-sticks, non-poisonous snakes;
- Paper novelty items, colored lights.
The following items are prohibited:
- Firecrackers of any kind or description;
- Any firework that explodes, such as cherry bombs, salutes, Roman candles, floral shells, artillery shells;
- Any firework intended to move after the piece is placed and fired; such as bottle rockets, parachutes, buzzbombs, pinwheels, helicopters, jumping jacks;
- Sparklers more than 20 inches (50mm) in length;
- Any firework that contains mercury, arsenic, tetryl, phosporous, sulphocyanide, magnesium, potassium picrate, gallic acid, chlorate of potash and sugar, or any highly oxidizing agent;
- Any firework having a side fuse, or a fuse inserted at any point along the length of the firework;
- Any firework found by the code official to be dangerous to the safety of persons or property.
Anyone found in possession of illegal fireworks in DC could be fined up to $2,000 and/or arrested. If you wish to report the use or sale of illegal fireworks, you may contact the DC Fire/EMS Department’s Fire Prevention Division at (202) 727-1600 or (202) 727-1614.
