Know Before You Light: What Fireworks Are Legal in Illinois?

As Independence Day approaches, the Bourbonnais Fire Protection District reminds residents that Illinois has some of the strictest fireworks laws in the country. Many fireworks that are legally purchased in neighboring states are not legal to possess or use in Illinois. Purchasing fireworks across state lines does not make them legal once they are brought back into Illinois. (Illinois Legal Aid)

Fireworks That Are Generally Legal in Illinois

Illinois law permits only certain novelty items, including:
• Sparklers
• Smoke devices
• Snake or glow worm pellets
• Party poppers
• Snappers
• Trick noisemakers and similar novelty items
• Toy caps used in toy pistols or toy guns

Please note that local municipalities may adopt ordinances that are more restrictive than state law, so residents should always check local regulations before purchasing or using any novelty fireworks. (Illinois Legal Aid)

Fireworks That Are Illegal for Personal Use

The following consumer fireworks are illegal to possess, sell, or use in Illinois without the appropriate permits:
• Firecrackers
• Bottle rockets
• Roman candles
• Mortars
• Aerial shells
• Skyrockets
• Missiles and helicopters
• Ground spinners and pinwheels
• Reloadable fireworks
• Most aerial and explosive consumer fireworks

These items are commonly sold in neighboring states such as Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Iowa, but bringing them into Illinois for personal use is against state law. (Illinois Legal Aid)

Are Public Fireworks Displays Allowed?

Yes. Professionally conducted fireworks displays may be held in Illinois only with the required permits issued by the local jurisdiction and must be conducted by qualified operators in accordance with state law. (SFM Illinois)

Why Are Fireworks Restricted?

Every year, fireworks cause thousands of injuries, fires, and millions of dollars in property damage across the United States. Even legal novelty fireworks, such as sparklers, burn at temperatures exceeding 1,000°F and can cause serious burns, especially to children.

The safest way to celebrate Independence Day is by attending a professionally conducted fireworks display.

Celebrate Responsibly

The Bourbonnais Fire Protection District encourages everyone to celebrate safely this Fourth of July by:

• Leaving fireworks to the professionals.
• Supervising children around sparklers and novelty items.
• Keeping a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
• Never using fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• Properly disposing of used sparklers and fireworks by soaking them in water before placing them in the trash.

Have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day and help keep our community safe by following Illinois fireworks laws.