Setting off fireworks is a popular pastime during the Fourth of July and other warm-weather celebrations. However, each state governs the purchase and use of fireworks. Although consumers can purchase fireworks from licensed dealers in Ohio, you should know the law before setting them off. To avoid a misdemeanor or felony charge, below are answers to common questions about the rules in the Buckeye State.  

What to Know About Ohio’s Fireworks Laws

What types of fireworks can you purchase?

In Ohio, consumers who are at least 18 years old can purchase 1.4g fireworks, such as fountains, bottle rockets, and Roman candles. The legal limit of explosive material in these Class C fireworks is 50 mg. Novelties and trick noisemakers, such as sparklers and smoke bombs, are also allowed in the state. 

Where can you shoot fireworks?

Although you can buy 1.4g fireworks in Ohio, you have to cross state lines to use them. Buy the explosive devices a day or two before you plan to set them off, as you must transport them out of Ohio within 48 hours of the sale. You can set off novelties and trick noisemakers in Ohio without any penalties.

What are the consequences of breaking the rules?

People who do not follow Ohio’s fireworks laws could face serious consequences. The police can charge first-time offenders who falsify purchase documents, ignore the 48-hour deadline, or set 1.4g fireworks off in Ohio could with a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalty includes a fine of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. Repeat offenders face fifth-degree felony charges, which include imprisonment for up to a year. 

What should you do if you get in trouble?

If the police charge you with illegal use of fireworks, contact a defense attorney immediately for assistance. They will help you understand the severity of the charges and hopefully design a case to reduce or drop the charges. A lawyer can also assist if someone else illegally uses fireworks and damages your property or injures you.

If you face trouble for using illegal fireworks or want to learn more about Ohio laws to avoid misdemeanor or felony charges, contact James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law. In practice since 2002, the Cincinnati, OH, defense attorney provides clients with counsel regarding their DUI arrests, juvenile delinquency cases, and additional legal matters. Call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation. You can also view his practice areas online. Keep up with the firm’s announcements on Facebook.