Fireworks Ordinance
The County has updated rules for using fireworks!
Following are some frequently asked questions and answers about the law:
When did the new Fireworks Ordinance take effect? The ordinance took effect July 1, 2023.
What does the ordinance prohibit? The ordinance makes it unlawful for a person to use, discharge, shoot or ignite fireworks or similar explosives within unincorporated Richland County between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Persons may not:
- Negligently, recklessly, or intentionally direct the discharge of fireworks toward a structure, animal or person
- Intentionally detonate fireworks upon the land of another without express prior consent
- Intentionally dump, throw, drop, deposit, discard or otherwise fire onto another’s property without express prior consent
- Offer for sale or sell permissible fireworks to children under the age of 16, unless accompanied by a parent
- Ignite or detonate fireworks within 600 feet of a church, hospital or public school unless authorized by the proper officials or managers of the property during the times allowable
- Ignite or detonate fireworks within or discharge from a motor vehicle
- Place or throw an ignited firework into a motor vehicle
Are there exceptions to the ordinance? Yes, fireworks may be used until 1 a.m. on July 5 and Jan. 1.
Does the ordinance prohibit the use of fireworks during daylight hours? No, the ordinance does not prohibit the use of fireworks during daylight hours.
What are the penalties associated with the Fireworks Ordinance? A violation of the ordinance is punishable by a civil penalty of up to:
- $500 for a first offense
- $750 for a second offense
- $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense
What is the time period for subsequent violations? The time period for second and third violations are for those occurring within five years of the previous violation.
PSA: In this video, County Councilman Derrek Pugh (District 2) discusses the updated fireworks ordinance.