Fireworks are a tradition, but not all are legal
Some say there's nothing more American than apple pie, mom, and fireworks — especially on the Fourth of July. But in Wisconsin, many types of fireworks are illegal without a proper permit.
What requires a permit?
Fireworks that explode or leave the ground — including firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, mortars, and aerial repeaters — are prohibited unless you have a valid municipal permit.
You can’t possess or use fireworks without a valid permit issued by the mayor, village president, or town chairperson. A roadside vendor cannot issue a permit.
Permits must specify what you're using, where, and when, and are only valid within the issuing municipality.
What’s allowed without a permit?
You don’t need a permit for novelty items like:
• Sparklers (under 36 inches)
• Stationary cones and fountains
• Toy snakes and smoke bombs
• Caps and noisemakers
• Confetti poppers with under ¼ grain of explosive material
However, local ordinances may be stricter, so always check with your city or town before lighting anything.
What’s the penalty for breaking the law?
Some people still ignore the rules but do so at great risk. Violating state law can lead to a $1,000 fine per illegal firework. So if you’re found with 20 fireworks, that could be a $20,000 forfeiture.
If a court issues an injunction against your use of fireworks and you violate it, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable by up to nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine.
Why are the laws so strict?
The Fourth of July is the most fire-prone day of the year in the U.S., and fireworks are often the cause. Nationwide, fireworks result in:
• Nearly 11,000 emergency room visits annually
• Thousands of fires, including over 1,000 structure fires and 300 vehicle fires
Avoid conflict before it starts: talk to your neighbors
Even when you’re within your legal rights, fireworks can still create tension. Complaints from neighbors are the number one reason people receive fireworks-related tickets or visits from law enforcement.
Planning to set off fireworks this holiday? Let your neighbors know in advance. Giving them a heads-up allows them to prepare — especially if they have pets, small children, or sensory sensitivities. A short conversation can go a long way in avoiding conflict and keeping the celebration enjoyable for everyone.
Celebrate smart
The Fourth of July should be fun, not something that ends in fines, fires, or friction. Know what’s allowed, check your local ordinances, and keep safety in mind. A little planning goes a long way toward making sure your celebration stays festive and legal.
