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Fireworks

Fourth of July Fine information

 

Fireworks and Fourth of July Safety

This year, the Fourth of July will need to be celebrated differently due to COVID-19 and physical distancing requirements, which prohibit large gatherings.

 

Personal Fireworks Use is Prohibited in Tacoma

Violations of the fireworks ban can result in a $257 fine. Skip the fine, start a new Fourth of July tradition this year!

  • Explore nature on an urban hike or going out to a trail.
  • Organize an outdoor community movie in your neighborhood.
  • Have a physically distanced BBQ or tailgate party with your neighbors.
  • Organize a water balloon fight with the neighbors.
  • Share your new tradition with us on social media using the hashtag #tacomatraditions!

And, make sure your new traditions include physical distancing with people outside your home and keep your facemask close at hand.

 

Violations of the fireworks ban can be reported by calling the non-emergency police number at (253) 287-4455. For emergencies like life-threatening injury or fire, call 911.

 

Personal fireworks use is banned in the City of Tacoma. Violators are subject to a $257 fine and the confiscation of their fireworks. 

 

If you have additional questions, please call the Fire Prevention Division at (253) 591-5740.

Fireworks Flyer

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Fourth of July is a fun and special holiday for many, however, it can also be a very dangerous one. Here are some commonly asked questions about fireworks.

Are fireworks illegal in Tacoma?
Absolutely - all of them! In the city of Tacoma, it is unlawful to purchase, possess, or discharge any fireworks except for display fireworks discharged by professionals at a permitted community event.Why are they banned?
Fireworks were originally banned in 1992 following a very dry spring. Officials were concerned about high fire danger and limited the discharge to one day only. In a close vote the following spring, the City Council banned fireworks completely. However, the deciding factor was not because of weather-related conditions, but due to the inherent danger that fireworks pose to residents and property. After much debate and in a close vote in May of 1998, the City Council decided to keep the ban in place. What if I buy my fireworks in another city or on Tribal Land?
If you buy fireworks and bring them to Tacoma you risk being fined and having them confiscated because they are not legal here. Remember, many of the fireworks purchased on Tribal Land are only legal to discharge on Tribal Land.