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The Fourth of July is just around the corner and with it comes truckloads of fireworks.

We hate to be a fun sponge, but pretty much all the good stuff is illegal without a permit, under Wisconsin law.

Keeping that in mind, here’s a rundown of how you can celebrate Independence Day without getting in trouble. 

What’s illegal?

Basically, any firework that explodes or leaves the ground is illegal to purchase, possess or use without a permit. That includes backyard favorites like bottle rockets, roman candles, motors and even firecrackers.

So tell that crazy uncle of yours to think twice about launching that bottle rocket from his teeth because anyone who purchases, possesses, uses or sells such fireworks without a permit could get slapped with a fine of up to $1,000.

Also, each firework illegally used or sold is considered a separate violation, and parents can be held responsible if their kids are caught with them.  


A part of Fond du Lac's fourth of July fireworks display. Fond du Lac Reporter

OK, what’s legal?

Snakes and sparklers, my friends, snakes and sparklers.

Most fireworks that don’t go boom or leave the ground are OK without a permit. That includes smoke bombs, cones, fountains, caps, confetti poppers and, you guessed it, snakes and sparklers.

Back to the good stuff. How do I get a permit?

You must obtain a firework permit from the mayor, village president, town chair or an individual who has been designated to issue one. It varies depending on the municipality.

The permit needs to specify the name and address of its holder, the date on and after which the fireworks can be purchased, the type and quantity of fireworks, the date and location of permitted use and any special conditions prescribed by the ordinance.

A copy of the permit needs to be given to a fire or law enforcement official in the municipality at least two days before the fireworks display.

I’m from out-of-state, do these rules apply?

You betcha. Nonresidents aren’t allowed to purchase, possess or use fireworks in Wisconsin without a permit, but they can order them online without one.

Does that cover it all?

Not quite. State law doesn't give the Wisconsin Department of Justice direct authority to enforce the fireworks law. Enforcement responsibility rest with local law enforcement and district attorneys, or municipal prosecutors in the case of local ordinance violations.

That's why you probably won't get busted for buying firecrackers without a permit.

But also keep in mind, municipalities can make ordinances that are stricter than state laws, so it’s best to check with local officials to find out what’s legal in your area.


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