Fireworks
Only approved fireworks may be possessed or discharged in Hanover County. The items on the list attached below are sorted by the wholesaler and then by the fireworks’ name. Any fireworks discharged or found in your possession that are not on the list constitute a violation of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code.
LIST: sparklers, fountains, Pharaoh's serpents, caps for pistols, pinwheels commonly known as whirligigs or spinning jennies, or other permissible fireworks as defined by Virginia Code § 27-95 or by the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code; provided, however, that the same may only be used, ignited or exploded on private property with the consent of the owner of such property. Such fireworks shall be sold only in conformance with the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code and with the terms and conditions of a permit issued by the fire marshal.
All illegal fireworks will be confiscated, and the person responsible may be charged with a violation of county or state laws. Permissible fireworks shall have a hard-coated or slow-burning fuse at least one and a half (1 1/2) inches long with a burning rate of not less than four (4) seconds. Quick-match fuses are prohibited. Such permissible fireworks shall be used only on private property with the approval of the owner of the property.
Sec. 9-16. - Sale or discharge of fireworks.
2023 Permissible Fireworks list
SAFETY TIPS
Even legal fireworks can be dangerous. Take special precautions to celebrate safely on the Fourth of July. Here are some helpful tips:
• Fireworks should only be used under adult supervision.
• Fireworks should only be used outdoors on a driveway sidewalk or other fire-resistant surface. Remember fires are caused by careless handling of fireworks in areas exposed to sparks or live fireworks.
• Never ignite fireworks during high winds where flying sparks can start a fire.
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case sparks start a fire.
• Be sure children around fireworks know to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches on fire.
• Deposit sparklers in a metal container as they may be stepped on while hot or lost in the grass and stepped on while playing.
• Never aim or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction or fail to go off.
• Do not wear loose clothing when using fireworks.
• Never experiment or make fireworks.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries or worse is to leave fireworks displays to professionals.
REMEMBER
Misuse of fireworks causing death injury or property loss shall incur civil or criminal liability. Our goals are public safety and voluntary compliance with the law. Help us protect you and your loved ones:
• Surrender illegal fireworks voluntarily when requested by authorities.
• Failure to comply may lead to issuing a summons to court and confiscation of illegal fireworks.
For more information about selecting and using legal fireworks or if you would like to safely dispose of illegal fireworks contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 804-365-4850. Turning in illegal fireworks will not result in any fines or summons and no questions will be asked.