Is it legal to shoot fireworks in Louisiana? What to know before July 4th
The use of fireworks on Independence Day is a long-standing tradition throughout the U.S., ever since the first official observance in 1777 when the Founding Fathers envisioned a celebration with "illuminations."
If you're planning on setting off fireworks on July 4 this year in Louisiana, it may be worth knowing rules and regulations regarding exactly when you are allowed to use fireworks.
In Louisiana, you can typically begin buying fireworks for July 4th as early as June 16 at noon, and up until midnight on July 5. For celebrating New Year's Eve, fireworks can be purchased in Louisiana from noon on Dec. 15 until midnight on Jan. 1, according to American Pyrotechnics Association.
However, while you are able to purchase fireworks during these time periods, you may not be allowed to use them depending on when the usage of fireworks is permitted in Louisiana.
Fireworks are usually permitted during a specific time period in Louisiana and, in some areas, you can light fireworks from June 25 until July 5 and from Dec. 15 until Jan. 1. However, local laws and ordinances may have differing dates for when fireworks are allowed.
Generally, the use of fireworks is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. in Louisiana, except during extended hours, from 10 a.m. until 1 a.m., on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
In Louisiana, fireworks are often prohibited within a certain distance of churches, schools, hospitals or public buildings, according to Louisiana State Legislature.
In Louisiana, certain types of fireworks are illegal to posses, sell or use, including cherry bombs, tubular salutes, two-inch American-made salutes, repeating bombs, aerial bombs, as well as firecrackers exceeding certain dimensions, torpedoes exceeding certain diameters, Roman candles larger than a certain size, and sky rockets larger than a specific weight, according to Louisiana State Legislature.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@Gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Can I shoot July 4th fireworks in Louisiana? State fireworks laws
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