New York allows ‘shiny contraption’ fireworks on July 4: What does it mean

Traditionally, fireworks are held on the 4th of July. The central Hudson Valley hosts many community events that feature impressive fireworks displays to celebrate the holiday.

If you’re looking to light up the sky in your backyard, remember that New York has specific regulations governing which ones consumers can buy and when they can buy them.

Some local governments ban the sale and use of all types of fireworks, even though most of the state allows the sale and use of “sparking devices.”

No matter how you plan to celebrate this year, be careful when fireworks are involved. According to the U.S. Consumer Product and Safety Commission, 9,700 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2023, resulting in eight deaths.

What fireworks are legal in New York? Illegal?

The only fireworks legal in New York are sparkling fireworks – ground-based or portable devices whose primary effect is to produce sparks.

According to the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, such devices may produce a colored flame, an audible crackling or whistling sound, and may produce smoke or just smoke. However, they do not fly into the air, fire projectiles into the air, or explode.

These may be cylindrical or conical bases that are placed on the ground, or may be in the form of hand-held sparklers such as poppers or snappers.

Although these devices are legal in New York, some municipalities have implemented their own restrictions. In Orange County, specifically Newburgh and Middletown, the use of spark devices is prohibited within city limits.

Any fireworks that are fired into the air, such as Roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, spinning tops, and other flying devices, are illegal in New York without a permit.

When can I buy sparklers?

New Yorkers 18 and older can purchase light-up devices at certified brick-and-mortar and specialty stores from June 1 to July 5 and from December 26 to January 2.

In the mid-Hudson Valley, you can often see tents selling fireworks.

Certified temporary stands can only sell spark devices during the state-approved periods of June 20 to July 5 and December 26 to January 2.

More: Here you can see fireworks celebrating the 4th of July in the central Hudson Valley

Fireworks Safety Reminders

The CPSC reported that 66% of fireworks injuries occurred in the weeks leading up to and immediately after July 4, 2023, and 42% of those were burns. Sparking devices burn at about 2,000 degrees.

New York State urges residents to follow these safety guidelines when using sparking appliances:

Always follow the directions on the packaging
All sparklers are intended for outdoor use only
Wear safety glasses when using sparklers.
Light only one cold brilliant candle at a time.
Never point a firework at any part of your body or anyone else.
Store sparklers and gadgets in a safe place when not in use
Never use fireworks if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Keep an approved fire extinguisher nearby during the show
Do not attempt to relight or operate non-functional fireworks.
To prevent fire, spray damaged and used devices with water before throwing them away.
Purchase sparklers and novelty devices only from New York State registered dealers