Fireworks in District of Columbia (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: The District of Columbia prohibits any firework that explodes, and fireworks that move after being placed, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. Sparklers up to 20 inches and some ground items are permitted.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Consumers may buy and use category F2 fireworksConsumer fireworks (category F2) | No [1] |
| Minimum age to buyConsumer fireworks (category F2) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Minimum age to possess or let offConsumer fireworks (category F2) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| When they may be sold to the publicConsumer fireworks (category F2) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| When they may be let offConsumer fireworks (category F2) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Where they may not be let offConsumer fireworks (category F2) | According to the Metropolitan Police Department, any firework that explodes is in general illegal in the District, as are fireworks intended to move after being placed (such as bottle rockets and pinwheels) and sparklers more than 20 inches long. Permitted items include sparklers up to 20 inches, fountains, cones, torches, toy paper caps and paper novelties. Section 5609 of the DC Fire Code (2017) governs fireworks. [1] |
| Fireworks consumers may useConsumer fireworks (category F2) | Only items such as sparklers up to 20 inches long, torches, cones, box fires, fountains, dip-sticks, snakes, paper novelties and toy caps. Firecrackers, anything that explodes and anything that moves after lighting (rockets, pinwheels, helicopters) are prohibited. [1] |
Notes
- The Metropolitan Police Department page lists as permitted: sparklers not more than 20 inches long, torches, cones, box fires, fountains, dip-sticks, non-poisonous snakes and paper novelty items. It cites section 5609 of the District of Columbia Fire Code (2017). The regulation text was not read. Illegal use or possession can bring fines starting at $2,000 or arrest, according to the same page.
Sources
- Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia: Fireworks: Some Facts and Safety Tips (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
District of Columbia and neighbouring states
| State | Consumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks | Minimum age to buy | When they may be sold to the public | When they may be let off | Where they may not be let off |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | No (fountains, cones, sparklers only) | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | Exploding and aerial fireworks illegal |
| Maryland | No (permit only; sparklers excepted) | — | Not without a permit | — | Permit needed to discharge |
| Virginia | No (only permissible fireworks) | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | Private property with owner's consent; local bans apply |
More rules in District of Columbia
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Legal for 21+, up to 2 oz · Growing at home: Yes, up to 6 plants (3 mature)
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 20 mph (default) · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 20 mph (default)
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceEarliest age to drive a car supervised: 16 (learner permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsMinimum age: 16
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: No folding rule; 'dangerous weapon' ban applies · Locking or one-handed knives: Switchblade: possession banned
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $18.40 per hour
- Using a mobile phone while drivingHolding a phone while driving banned: Banned · Hands-free use: Hands-free allowed
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes, all seats · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes, all seats
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 21 · Minimum age to buy spirits: 21
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: Any amount (under 21)
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.