Only Sparklers Are Legal

Although the Fourth of July, 2002, will be the second celebration of Independence Day in Connecticut since state law legalized the use of sparklers, questions to the Office of State Fire Marshal reveal that many people are still confused as to which fireworks can be used by private individuals without breaking the law. The legal consequences of violations of the state fireworks laws can be serious.

To avoid confusion and to caution the public to avoid fines and even possible imprisonment, the following clarification has been issued by Deputy State Fire Marshal John Blaschik: “The term ‘Class C consumer fireworks’ has not been in use for a number of years and today has no legal meaning. The words ‘Safe and Sane Fireworks,’ are used in a few states to describe a class of fireworks that are legal for private use in that specific state. For example, California law refers to ‘Safe and Sane Fireworks’ for use in California not applicable to Connecticut law under, which only sparklers are legal for private sale, purchase, possession or use. Private use of any fireworks other than sparklers is illegal in Connecticut.”

Some persons may plan to travel out of state to purchase fireworks that may not legally be purchased or used in Connecticut. They should be aware that, even if they intend to use them in another state where they are legal, transporting them to or through Connecticut is prohibited by law unless by someone licensed to transport fireworks. Sparklers can be transported.