When celebrating Fourth of July with fireworks, be mindful of Georgia’s fireworks regulations. Having knowledge on the acceptable times, places, and kinds of fireworks is essential for a safe and fun event.

Fireworks Schedule in Georgia

In Georgia, fireworks start at 10 a.m. and must stop by 11,59 p.m. daily, except on special days,

• July 4th (Independence Day), Fireworks allowed till midnight.
• New Year’s Eve, Fireworks stop at 1 a.m. on January 1st.
• Last Weekend of May (Memorial Day Weekend), Fireworks go until 11,59 p.m.
• First Monday of September (Labor Day), Fireworks are acceptable up to 11,59 p.m.

Local noise laws may force added limits but can’t specifically target fireworks alone. These additional laws should have been passed after July 1, 2018.

Types of Fireworks Allowed in Georgia

The state allows various kinds of consumer grade fireworks such as,

• Exploding firecrackers
• Skyrockets
• Bottle rockets
• Roman candles
• Blank cartridges
• Torpedoes
• Bombs

All these products can be bought from local retail outlets across the state.

Age Limitations for Buying Fireworks

To buy fireworks in Georgia one needs to be at least eighteen years old.

Certain Places do not Allow Fireworks Use

If you reside in locations such as city properties including gas stations, hospitals, nursing homes, public roads, parks without event permits or state property that includes places above hundred yards of water treatment plant, electric substations, jails or hospitals. using fireworks is illegal.

Making Use of Fireworks Safely and Respectfully

If you wish to use fireworks, be kind to your neighbors, some of them might be working the next day or they could have pets that don’t like loud noises. In case you notice someone ignoring the rules about fireworks, you can report them at 678-297-6300, option 1, to Georgia Department of Public Safety.

Follow These Tips for Safe Fireworks Usage

• Do not let young kids play with fireworks.
• Have water handy should a fire start.
• Light only one firework at a time and stand back fast.
• If a firework doesn’t light up right, don’t try again.
• Do not use fireworks under the influence of substances.

Report Illegal Firework Usage

If someone breaks the permitted times for using fireworks, report it to your local authorities. For instance, Alpharetta residents can call their Department of Public Safety on its nonemergency line at 678-297-6300 and select Option 1 and provide details about the location and activity.

• If you are not comfortable using fireworks, try these alternatives,
• Substitute sparklers with glow sticks.”Use noisemakers from party store instead of firecrackers.
• Arrange an outdoor movie night instead of setting off fireworks.
• Red, white, and blue silly string can make for fun times instead of actual explosives .
• Instead of a normal celebration, make it interesting with patriotic costumes and crafts.

The History Behind Fireworks for Independence Day Celebrations

The custom of using fireworks for Independence Day dates back to July 4, 1776. John Adams suggested fireworks for the commemoration of this day, and the first firework display took place on July 4, 1777.

Changes to Firework Laws

Over the past twenty years, many states including Georgia have been relaxing their regulations on fireworks use. This allows residents to buy fireworks within their state instead of crossing into another state with less restrictive laws.

The Conclusion,

To make your Fourth of July experience a good one in Georgia using fireworks, keep in mind both safety precautions and the laws. Be considerate towards your neighbors and enjoy a perfect celebration.