Are your fireworks legal?
As we enjoy the 4th of July holiday, the Swatara Township Police would like to remind residents and guests of local Ordinances and State Laws that govern the use of fireworks. Contrary to what you may have heard, aerial fireworks may still be illegal in your neighborhoods. Large aerial fireworks are still to be used solely by professionals with a valid permit. “Consumer fireworks” are authorized for use by civilians, and can be bought at typical roadside stands, but are regulated by certain rules. Most importantly, consumer fireworks cannot be used within 150 feet of an occupied structure (that's only half the length of a football field). There are very few locations that meet this requirement in Swatara Township and Paxtang Borough neighborhoods. We ask everyone to use common sense and common courtesy when using legal fireworks. Police Officers will respond to reports of firework violations and may file charges against persons found to be using fireworks contrary to the provisions of the law.
Both Swatara Township and Paxtang Borough have enacted local Ordinances addressing the use of fireworks. You can view those Ordinances here:
Both the Ordinances of Swatara Township and Paxtang Borough have the following restrictions on the use of fireworks:
A person may not intentionally ignite or discharge:
(1) Consumer fireworks on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner.
(2) Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices within, or throw consumer fireworks or sparkling devices from, a motor vehicle or building.
(3) Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices into or at a motor vehicle, building, or another person.
(4) Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug.
(5) Consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an occupied structure.
(6) Consumer fireworks between the hours of 12:00 midnight and 8:00 a.m. between January 2 and December 31.
(7) Consumer fireworks between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on January 1.
(8) Consumer fireworks on a date that is not within seven calendar days of a recognized federal holiday.
