Fireworks are an exciting part of every Fourth of July celebration, but with the colorful displays comes the potential for danger. It's important to be prepared, safe, and responsible when enjoying fireworks.

Legal Fireworks

The City of Richland allows the sale and use of some specific fireworks in accordance with Washington State and local ordinances. To be sure that your fireworks are legal, fireworks used in Richland should be purchased in Richland.

The following types of fireworks are not legal to be sold, purchased, or used in the City of Richland: 

• Ground Spinner: spins free on the ground with colorful sparks
• Mine/Shell: cardboard or paper tube that propels "stars" (stays on the ground)
• Smoke Device: tube or sphere, white or colored smoke
• Roman Candle: heavy paper or cardboard tube that fires out "stars"
• Combination Items: two or more effects described above
• Rockets: bottle rockets and skyrockets
• Firecrackers

Violators may be cited. Violations will result in a $250 fine and confiscation of illegal fireworks.

Fireworks are not legal to be sold or used by anyone under the age of sixteen.

Fireworks Safety Tips

• Keep a bucket or water or garden hose nearby
• Be aware of dry/windy conditions
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks and keep children at a safe distance
• Only light one firework at a time and then move back quickly
• Only light fireworks outdoors and on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and other flammable materials
• Always buy fireworks from a reliable source; if you buy them in Richland, they are legal in Richland

Fireworks Etiquette

• Be aware of your neighbors, their pets, and their families
• Safely dispose of used fireworks; let used fireworks soak in a bucket of water overnight before disposing of them in plastic waste bins to prevent smoldering fires that can spread to nearby structures
• Pick up any leftover debris when your celebration is over
• Do not light fireworks outside of designated hours

It is legal to discharge fireworks during the following dates and times:

For more information about the manufacture, sale and discharge of fireworks, please refer to the Richland Municipal Code.