NC residents often buy fireworks in SC for July 4th. Is it legal? What state law says
Just 13 miles south of Charlotte’s city center lies Fireworks Supermarket in Fort Mill, South Carolina — a busy spot Monday afternoon, with many shoppers preparing for the Fourth of July.
The Palmetto State has long been a popular destination for North Carolina residents wanting to buy holiday pyrotechnics, since only certain fireworks are permitted by law in North Carolina.
While there may be a better selection of fireworks in South Carolina, getting caught with them across state lines could land you in serious trouble.
If you plan on setting off your own fireworks on the Fourth of July, 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
What’s not allowed?
- Fireworks like roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets and any others that are projected into the air are illegal in North Carolina.
The law also says it is illegal for people under the age of 16 to purchase fireworks.
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.
Aerial fireworks, such as roman candles, are legal in South Carolina, but M-80s and cherry bombs are not, according to the S.C. Board of Pyrotechnic Safety.
However, it is illegal to transport fireworks across state lines into North Carolina, and you could be charged with a 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 in the U.S. were involved with an estimated 9,700 injuries in 2023, and eight fireworks-related deaths were reported during the same year.
The N.C. Department of Insurance offers the following safety tips to prevent injury:
Never let children light fireworks or use sparklers unattended.
Use fireworks in a clear area outdoors, away from dry leaves, people, pets, buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions, or anything combustible.
Be aware of windy or drought conditions that could alter the trajectory of fireworks or start fires.
Have a bucket of water or hose around in case of an unexpected fire.
Never throw or point fireworks at anyone or ignite fireworks in a container.
Stabilize fireworks on the ground before lighting, preferably on a fire-safe surface.
Never light a firework in your hand.
Only light one firework at a time, and then move back quickly to a safe location.
Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
Never place any part of your body over a firework while lighting its fuse.
Don’t pick up or try to re-light a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak them in water.
Douse all spent fireworks with water and then place them in a covered metal trash can away from buildings or combustibles until the next day.
Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Only purchase and use fireworks labeled for consumer use.
This story was originally published July 2, 2024 at 9:59 AM.
