HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — What kind of fireworks you can set off in Alabama depends on where you are. Most cities ban fireworks, although some, like Huntsville, allow some non-explosive, non-aeriel devices. In Florence, an individual may detonate fireworks within the city limits on July 4th between the hours of 10:00 a.m. through 11:00 p.m. of the same day. Rules are different on other days. Ardmore AL allows fireworks, Athens does not. Madison's rules are essentially the same as Huntsville's; Nonexplosive, nonaerial sparkling devices, both ground-based and handled, are legal.
In most county areas, fireworks are allowed, although the kinds allowed may vary from county to county. The best thing you can do is check with your local police or fire department before you start celebrating. And those fireworks stands that seem to be in city limits? Those are actually in the county.
Click here for a list of fireworks that are legal in Alabama in general.
What kind of fireworks are legal in Huntsville? Are there any limits to what fireworks you can use in the city? Huntsville Fire & Rescue would like to remind residents that certain fireworks are now permitted for use in the city of Huntsville per an ordinance recently amended.
City of Huntsville Fire Marshal Daniel Wilkerson explained that they changed the ordinance in 2023 to allow what they consider novelty devices. "We changed the city ordinance at the last council meeting to allow for more products to be sold and used in the city of Huntsville. Which are like the handhelds, sparklers and the snaps." Nonexplosive, nonaerial sparkling devices, both ground-based and handled, are legal to use, sell or purchase in the city limits of Huntsville. These specific fireworks are non-aerial and don't make a loud banging noise. "So what the ordinance passed and you'll see these being sold in like Costco, Sam's Wal-marts, even Publix has them."
Wilkerson said there has been an increasing issue with fireworks in Huntsville over the last several years. "You know, when you have the the holidays, Memorial Day, 4th of July, New Year's, we get a lot of the products that make loud noise, scares, pets and animals. You could have community members that suffer from PTSD."
The ultimate goal is creating an atmosphere that supports a more overall healthy environment. "You know, it's just not good for a neighbor to shoot off products that is going to keep their neighbor awake at night," he continued.
Safety tips
If planning to use approved fireworks, Wilkerson recommends the following:
- Always have a water source nearby. Whether it’s a bucket of water or the garden hose, make sure you have a water source handy to put out any testy or stray fireworks. Without water, you risk igniting a fire in your own backyard.
- Never point fireworks at another person or pet. Over 9,000 injuries or burns related to fireworks mishaps are reported every year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It’s imperative that you point fireworks away from others, including pets, when using them at your home.
- Always wear nonflammable safety equipment. The bare minimum when it comes to fireworks safety equipment is a pair of goggles! It’s even better if you can cover your head, wear a thick coat or add some gloves.
- Never relight a firework. If a firework fails to go off correctly, consider it a dud. You should never relight or pick up fireworks that fail. Instead, wait then use a water source to douse the firework and dispose of it in the garbage.
- Children should never be allowed to ignite or play with fireworks. The National Safety Council (NSC) says something as small as a sparkler can cause injuries to children, along with firecrackers and bottle rockets. It’s simply not worth the risk.
- Stay sober when using fireworks. Never handle fireworks under the influence of alcohol.
Professional fireworks shows
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional fireworks show.
“Huntsville has plenty of fireworks shows that will light up the sky over the next few weeks,” Wilkerson said. “We encourage you to attend those instead of doing your own.”
HFR-approved fireworks displays throughout Huntsville this year include:
- June 24: Fourth of July Celebration at Ditto Landing
- June 26: Concerts in the Park at Big Spring Park
- July 1: Fourth of July Celebration at MidCity
- July 3: Fourth of July Event at Hampton House
- July 4: Fourth of July Celebration in Providence
