The Fourth of July is only days away, and many people will be celebrating the holiday with fireworks. While lighting fireworks may seem like an innocent activity, it can be incredibly dangerous. As a result, New Jersey has some strict firework laws. Read on to learn more.
What are New Jersey’s Firework Laws?
IN 2017, New Jersey’s previous governor, Chris Christie amended the New Jersey Explosives and Fireworks Act. The amendment legalized the sale and possession of non-explosive fireworks. This means that you can legally purchase certain:
- Handheld sparklers
- Ground-based sparklers
- Snakes
- Glowworms
- Smoke devices
- Trick noisemakers
That being said, there are other fireworks that are still illegal, including explosive and aerial fireworks. These fireworks are only to be used in permitted public displays. Even in this case, there are restrictions regarding how they can be used. In New Jersey:
- It is unlawful to sell, offer for sale, possess, or use them without a valid permit
- The permit must be issued by a municipality after submitting an application in writing and posting a bond for the display
- The chiefs of police and fire departments are required to approve the permit
- An identification number of the firework types must be on the permit
What Consequences Can I Face for Breaking New Jersey’s Firework Laws?
When a person does not abide by New Jersey’s firework laws, they can face consequences as a result. This is because the illegal possession or use of fireworks puts you and other people around you in serious danger. If a person sells, offers or exposes for sale, or possesses fireworks with intent to sell, they can be found guilty of a crime in the fourth degree. If they buy, use, discharge, ignite, or possess fireworks, they can be found guilty of a petty disorderly person’s offense.
If you are facing charges for breaking New Jersey’s firework laws, reach out to our firm today. We will advocate for you and explore all possible avenues of defense.
Contact our Firm
If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, you need strong legal defense. Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector for dedicated representation. With over 30 years of experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, he offers a unique perspective on how both sides think, and how to best approach each aspect of the case. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than the best possible legal representation. Contact an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who will aggressively fight for you. Call today for a free confidential consultation. Let our experience work for you.
