Red, White, and Boom: The Use of Fireworks in Indiana

The use of fireworks in Indiana is legal for those over the age of 18 as long as the use falls between the hours set by the state legislature or your local ordinances.

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration across the country. Groups will gather for barbeques, music, and of course, fireworks. However, the question that you and many others may ask as you look at the colorful lights in the night sky is, “are fireworks even legal?”

The answer to that question in Indiana is yes, the use of fireworks is legal. If you are over the age of 18, you are legally allowed to buy and use fireworks in certain areas. These areas include your own private property, the property of another person who has given you permission to use fireworks on their property, or any other area that is designated for fireworks. These are not the only restrictions, however. Fireworks may only be set off during times allowed by law. On most days, Indiana law allows people to set off  fireworks between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. However, local ordinances may limit your use of fireworks further.

Municipalities and counties may use their discretion in regulating the use of fireworks throughout the year. However, Indiana Code provides that the use of fireworks may not be prohibited on special occasions, such as the Fourth of July,  between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and two hours after sunset on June 29^th, June 30^th , July 1^st through 3^rd,and July 5^th through July 9^th. See Indiana Code section 22-11-14-10.5. This provides ample time for individuals to celebrate the Fourth of July throughout the week leading up to and right after the holiday.

Indiana law also sets out rules for the use of fireworks on the Fourth of July. On the date of the holiday, you are legally allowed to set off fireworks from the hours of 10:00 a.m. to midnight. Again, it is important to note that on the holiday, municipalities and counties cannot restrict your right to use fireworks during these hours. However, that doesn’t stop your municipality from expanding the hours you may use fireworks on the Fourth of July. If you plan to use fireworks, check your local ordinances for any additional regulations.

Remember to be safe when using fireworks as they are incredibly dangerous. Make sure to follow all safety precautions to ensure a happy and healthy Fourth of July!

If you have any questions about your rights related to the upcoming holidays, please reach out to one of our attorneys at McNeelyLaw LLP by calling (317) 825-5110.

This McNeelyLaw LLP publication should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion of any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your own lawyer on any specific legal questions you may have concerning your situation.