Fireworks

Fireworks safety is a top priority for the Town of Frederick. Public education about what is and what is not allowed and the Frederick Police Department's role in enforcement is top of mind as we approach Independence Day.

Except for pre-approved public displays, it is unlawful to discharge fireworks that leave the ground within the Town limits. To get straight to the point, it is illegal if it leaves the ground.

To sell fireworks in Frederick, the vendor must register for a permit with the Town, and only sell fireworks that are allowed within Town limits.

In the Town of Frederick Municipal Code (Chapter 10 Article XIII), "Fireworks" is defined as "any article, device or substance prepared for the primary purpose of producing a visual or auditory sensation by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation, including, without limitation, the following articles and devices commonly known and used as fireworks: toy cannons or toy canes in which explosives are used, blank cartridges, the type of balloon which requires fire underneath to propel the same, firecrackers, M-80s, aerial shells, torpedoes, skyrockets, rockets, pop bottle rockets, Roman candles, Day-Glo bombs and torches, or other fireworks of like construction and any fireworks containing any explosive or flammable compound, or any tablets or other device containing any explosive substance."

Colorado has a state-wide ban on fireworks that explode or leave the ground. The only exceptions are pre-approved public displays. In general, fireworks that do not leave the ground are permitted. The State of Colorado defines illegal fireworks as: 

• Illegal fireworks include various aerial devices, M-80s, quarter-sticks, half-sticks and other large firecrackers.
• Any firecracker with more than 50 milligrams of explosive powder and any aerial firework with more than 30 milligrams of flash powder is banned.
• In other words, if it leaves the ground it is illegal.

Our community partner, the Frederick-Firestone Fire Department, has put together an excellent article on fireworks safety and tips on how to celebrate this 4th of July safely.

What is allowed?

Permissible fireworks may include the following: cylindrical fountains, wheels, ground spinners, illuminating torches, colored fire, dipped sticks, sparklers, snakes and glow worms.

The Frederick Police Department is on patrol to keep the community safe! If you see any fireworks you think are illegal, please call Non-Emergency Dispatch at 720.652.4222. Let’s all think about the well-being of our residents, including our veterans and pets. Together, we can have a safe and respectful holiday!