With the passing of the Fourth of July comes many bbq and party cleanups, fun memories or trips to the lake or beach, and potentially some not so fun memories. Millions of Americans took place in celebrating our nation's Independence Day with none other than celebratory fireworks. However, not all fireworks are legal.
In Rhode Island, only “sparklers”—defined as ground and hand-held sparkling devices—can be used by the public. The primary pyrotechnic effect of these devices is the showering of colored, gold, or white sparks. Other effects may also include smoke, an audible whistle effect, an audible crackling effect, or a colored flame.
Common types of ground and hand-held sparkling devices include:
- Sparklers
- Fountains
- Smoke bombs
- Party poppers
- Spinners
- Snakes
- Glow worms
- Illuminating torches
By contrast, aerial consumer shells, pyrotechnics, and display fireworks are illegal in Rhode Island. In other words, anything that flies in the air or explodes is prohibited for consumers to use.
The following are common types of illegal fireworks:
- Skyrockets
- Bottle rockets
- Mortars
- Firecrackers
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Cherry bombs
- M-80s
Possession, sale, or use of illegal fireworks in the state is considered a felony offense, which carries a maximum $1,000 fine and a prison sentence of up to one year. Furthermore, if a person’s fireworks start a fire and destroy property or even harm someone else, they may face additional criminal and civil repercussions.
At The Law Office of Thomas C. Thomasian, Esq., Attorney Thomasian recommends you watch fireworks show rather than setting off fireworks in your own backyard or front yard. We hope everyone had a fun and safe Fourth of July.
For more information about fireworks laws in Rhode Island, contact his firm at (401) 312-4385 today.