What are Michigan's Fireworks Laws?

This Fourth of July in Michigan, residents will likely gather with friends and family to celebrate the holiday, grill hotdogs, and of course, watch fireworks displays. Those interested in launching their show in 2023 may wonder about Michigan’s fireworks laws.

While the State of Michigan legalized the sale of consumer-grade fireworks in 2011 to allow residents the opportunity to celebrate with a bang, updated laws were signed and passed in 2018. The law affects when consumer fireworks can be displayed.

In 2019, amendments to the Fireworks Safety Act prohibited local governments from restricting the use of consumer fireworks on the dates and times below.

• June 29-July 4 between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m.
• July 5, but only if it falls on a Friday or Saturday, between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m.
• The Saturday and Sunday preceding Labor Day and Memorial Day, between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m.
• Between 11 a.m. New Year’s Eve and 1 a.m. New Year’s Day.

Since the 4^th of July falls on a Tuesday in 2023, fireworks will be permitted up until 11:45 p.m. on July 4. After that date and time, fireworks are not permitted.

What types of fireworks are legal in Michigan?

• Bottle rockets
• Missile-type rockets
• Roman candles
• Firecrackers
• Aerials
• Helicopter/aerial spinners
• Single tube device with support
• Reloadable shell devices

State law continues to prohibit the ignition, discharge, or use of consumer fireworks on public property, school property, church property, or another person’s property without express permission to do so. It also prohibits the sale of consumer fireworks to anyone under 18 years old and the use of consumer fireworks and low-impact fireworks while under the influence of liquor and/or a controlled substance.

Additionally, many municipalities have enacted ordinances regulating the ignition, discharge, and use of consumer fireworks throughout the year. Some communities have also banned sky lanterns, which are not actually fireworks, due to the fire risk they create. Check with your local municipality to learn more about regulations or for more information.

Help is available

The attorneys at O’Reilly Rancilio are available to answer your questions regarding federal and state laws governing fireworks usage. To learn more, please visit our website at www.orlaw.com or call 586-726-1000.