The Use of Fireworks in the City of Phoenix
The sale and possession of consumer fireworks is legal, with some restrictions. However, the use, discharge, or ignition of the most common types of fireworks including consumer fireworks is still illegal -- firecrackers, roman candles, bottle rockets, fountains, ground spinners, etc. This prohibition does not apply to novelty items as defined by City Code such as snappers, snap caps, glow worms, snakes, party poppers, toy smoke devices, and sparklers.
Consumer fireworks authorized for sale under state law may not be sold to persons under the age of 16 and are illegal to use. Failure to comply with any part of this ordinance is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to $2,500 and/or six months in jail.
This chart will help you to determine if a product is legal or illegal to use in the City of Phoenix
If you have questions please contact our offices at 602-262-6771, Monday - Friday 8AM- 5PM. For after hours questions please call the Phoenix Fire Department non-emergency line at 602-495-5555.
Buying, Selling & Using Fireworks in the City of Phoenix
A Consumer Firework Operations Permit is required for all fireworks sales in the City of Phoenix. There are two types of permits; sales and wholesales. Fireworks may be sold indoor or outdoors. All indoor sales must be within buildings that have fully automatic sprinkler systems. The sale of permissible consumer fireworks in temporary tents will be limited to 3,000 pounds gross weight at any time. If the tent is over 800 square feet an additional tent permit will be required. Fire permits are required for both retail sales indoor and outdoor and wholesale distribution. Per State law signage is required at places of sale and displays that advise that purchases of permissible consumer fireworks is prohibited to persons under the age of 16 and that use of fireworks, except novelty items is prohibited. Additional permits and zoning approval may required by the Planning Department.
The use of fireworks in Phoenix is now a Class 1 Misdemeanor punishable by up to $2,500 and/or six months in jail. For question regarding the sale of fireworks please contact Fire Prevention.
Firework Permit Applications and Additional Forms
- Consumer Fireworks Permit Application -- Indoor, Outdoor or Wholesales
- Approved Fireworks Sales Sign Details
- Sample Sign
- Tent, Canopy & Membrane Structure Permit Questions
Permit for Professional Fireworks Shows/Events
Please contact our offices for information regarding how to obtain a firework show/event permit.
Fireworks Display Permit Application
To obtain a fireworks display show/event permit you will need to have a Phoenix Fire Department Certificate of Fitness card and insurance.
To obtain an individual Certificate of Fitness for pyrotechnics shooting you must provide a completed application, driver's license copy, birth certificate copy, meet the minimum qualifications for age and experience, successfully pass the test and provide 3 letters of recommendation from past or present pyro-technic company owners. Upon successful completion of the test, interview and background check you will receive a Phoenix Fire Department Certificate of Fitness.
Per the International Fire Code with Phoenix Amendments: Pyrotechnic Operator for outdoor fireworks. Pyrotechnic operators shall be a minimum of 21 years of age, The applicant shall require two years of active training with a licensed Outdoor Fireworks Pyrotechnic Operator, and the applicant shall have participated in the setting up, loading, and firing of outdoor fireworks in not less than eight electric or manual outdoor fireworks displays.
The permit fee is paid to the City of Phoenix and is valid for 3 years. There is a 30 day grace period for renewals, beyond that a full application and re-testing will be required.
