Fireworks in Atlanta: Know the Laws, Be Safe, and Be Respectful

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Fireworks in Atlanta: Know the Laws, Be Safe, and Be Respectful
June 7, 2022

Summertime is here and the 4th of July is right around the corner. Before you purchase your fireworks for this year’s celebrations make sure you understand what the firework laws are in Atlanta, how to use fireworks safely, and make sure to be respectful to your neighbors.

Did you know an average of 15,000 were injured in fireworks just last year? So it’s extremely important to understand how to use fireworks in the correct and safe way. Our Atlanta personal injury law firm is breaking down what the current laws are, tips on how to be safe, and please make sure to be respectful to those around you.

What are the laws for fireworks in Atlanta?

Fireworks are legal across the state of Georgia. However, there are only certain fireworks that can be legally purchased for consumer use. You must also be 18 years of age or older to purchase fireworks. Retailers are required to ask for government ID upon any sale of consumer fireworks.  Here is the list of fireworks that can be purchased;

  • Aerial items (cakes)
  • Bottle rockets
  • Crackle and strobe
  • Display shells
  • Firecrackers
  • Fountains
  • Missiles
  • Novelties
  • Parachutes
  • Roman candles
  • Sky flyers
  • Skyrockets
  • Smoke and punk
  • Sparklers
  • Wheels and spinners

If you are planning on setting off fireworks for public display you must receive a permit to do so. You need to contact your local government office for more information.

Please note that it is illegal to set off fireworks if under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What time(s) can I shoot off fireworks in Atlanta?

You can shoot off fireworks anytime between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 11:59 P.M. However the local noise ordinance does come into effect during those times. So you should check with your local government to make sure you know what your local noise ordinance times are for your area. The only exception to these local ordinances occurs on;

  • Memorial Day (includes last Saturday, Sunday, and the Monday in May)
  • Independence Day (both the 3rd and 4th of July)
  • Labor Day (includes the last Saturday, Sunday, and the Monday in September)
  • New Year’s Eve (the hours are 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 A.M. on New Year’s Eve)

Where can I shoot off fireworks in Atlanta?

It is illegal to shoot off fireworks inside, anywhere that is close to a public road, street, highway, or railroad. Parks, historic sites, and recreational areas are also illegal. Additionally, Georgia law states that you need to also be within 100 yards of the following places;

  • Electric plants
  • Electric substation
  • Gas Stations or any retail store which stores over 500 gallons of fuel
  • Hospital or nursing home
  • Jail or prison
  • Public air space, like a helipad or airport
  • Public parks or registered historical sites
  • Refineries
  • Water treatment plants
  • Waste-water treatment plant

Please note that whenever the Governor of Georgia declares a drought, fireworks are off-limits in those designated areas.

Safety tips for fireworks in Atlanta

Fireworks are beautiful to look at and they are fun. However, it is extremely important to follow the rules of firework safety so that you can enjoy the fireworks and not end up in the hospital with a burn, firework injury, or worst. Here are some simple rules to follow when shooting fireworks or even using sparklers.

  • Never allow young children to play with or light fireworks. (Even sparklers burn at 2,000 degrees!) Be sure to teach your child the same rules of firework safety
  • Adults should supervise all fireworks activities including sparklers
  • Don’t bring your pets to watch fireworks
  • Never carry fireworks in your clothing
  • As you are lighting fireworks, never place any part of your body directly over the fireworks
  • Light fireworks one at a time, back up to a safe distance quickly, and immediately after lighting fireworks
  • Do not shoot them off in metal or glass containers
  • Never pick up or try to re-light fireworks that fail to ignite. These a considered duds.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at anyone.
  • Always keep a garden hose or even a bucket of water handy in case of fire or other mishaps.
  • Soak used fireworks with plenty of water overnight before discarding them.

Remember to be respectful to your fellow neighbor

Everyone wants to enjoy holidays, especially holidays where fireworks are a special part of that holiday. However, remember that not everyone is a huge fan of fireworks and for some, it can be quite triggering for them. Just remember to be mindful and respectful to your surrounding neighbors as you shoot fireworks. Keep in mind these simple things;

  • Be respectful of the local noise ordinance times. Know your neighbors and their needs
  • Remember that fireworks can be stressful to pets. Make sure they are safe inside and in a calming space
  • Some combat veterans can be stressed by fireworks
  • For people with cognitive impairments, fireworks can cause stress

Have you been involved in a firework accident in Atlanta?

Unfortunately, accidents do happen – despite doing everything possible to keep your friends and loved ones safe. If you have been involved in a firework accident or injury, you need an Atlanta personal injury attorney that you can trust and who will fight for you, your family, and your loved one.

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Georgia Trial Attorneys’ personal injury lawyers are passionate, dedicated advocates who protect the rights of accident victims and their families. You can contact us or call 833-4TheWin for a free case consultation.


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