Buying fireworks in SC? It may not be legal to set them off in NC for Memorial Day
Memorial Day is approaching, which means fireworks will soon illuminate the night sky during commemorative ceremonies to honor those who died serving our country.
To prepare for the holiday, many in the Charlotte area travel to South Carolina to purchase an assortment of fireworks.
However, only certain fireworks are permitted in North Carolina, and getting caught with them across state lines could land you in serious trouble.
If you plan on setting off your own fireworks on Memorial Day weekend, here’s what to know.
What kind of fireworks are legal in NC?
According to state law, fireworks allowed in North Carolina include:
Explosive caps designed to be fired in toy pistols
Snakes and glow worms made of pyrotechnic mixtures that produce a large, snake ash when burning
Smoke devices that produce white or colored smoke
Noisemakers, including party poppers, string poppers or drop pops
Wire sparklers, or any other sparkling devices that emit showers of sparks
Fireworks like roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets and any others that are projected into the air are illegal in North Carolina.
Cities and counties can issue permits for larger fireworks that can be used at fairs, carnivals, shows and other public celebrations, per state law.
Can you buy fireworks from SC and shoot them in NC?
Unlike North Carolina, South Carolina has fewer restrictions on aerial fireworks.
However, it is illegal to transport fireworks across state lines, and you could be charged with a Class 3 misdemeanor if you’re caught, according to state law.
What are some safety tips for handling fireworks?
According to a report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were involved with an estimated 15,600 injuries in 2020, and 18 fireworks-related deaths were reported during the same year.
The Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal’s Office offers the following safety tips to prevent injury:
Never try to make your own fireworks
Always use fireworks outside, and have a bucket of water and a fire extinguisher nearby
Never point fireworks at someone
Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or carry them in your pockets
Wear eye protection while handling fireworks
Pointing fireworks away from homes
Keep fireworks away from brush, leaves and flammable substances
Only light one firework at a time
Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash
Only let kids use sparklers under adult supervision
