Sparks, wind turbines, eddies, wells, and pharaoh snakes are legal, but the Virginia Fire Code also sets specific restrictions for them. However, fireworks that remain on the ground, such as wind turbines, fountains, and sparks, are legal under state code. This Act applies to all Commonwealth counties such as Augusta, Page, Rockingham and Shenandoah counties. Fireworks sold and inspected in Rockingham County are considered legal for use there, in accordance with Virginia laws (do not shoot in the air), but they cannot be taken to Harrisonburg. Possession of fireworks alone is a criminal offence in the city. City of AlexandriaIt is illegal for anyone to store, offer or display for sale fireworks – including sparks – within the city limits of Alexandria, retail them or explode. Violations of the Fireworks Act are punishable by fines of up to $2,500 and imprisonment for up to one year. Manassas Parkfire city fire bodies, if approved by the fire marshal, include sparks, fountains, pharaoh snakes, gun caps, wind turbines commonly known as Whirligigs or Spinning Jennies, or other similar approved fireworks. Fireworks that emit flames or sparks at a distance of more than 12 feet or act as a projectile, or that externally resemble fireworks, cherry bombs, Roman candles, torpedoes or missiles, are not allowed. To promote the safety of its citizens and prevent wildfires, the state of Virginia limits the types of fireworks available for purchase, possession, and use by the general public.
While specific regulations vary depending on the city or county where you live, fireworks such as fireworks, sparks, bottle rockets, rockets, torpedoes, and other fireworks that explode, move sideways, fly into the air, or fire projectiles into the air are illegal in Virginia, unless you are a licensed contractor. Varieties that are generally allowed include sparks, fountains, pharaoh snakes, wind turbines and whirlpools. In some areas, including Chesterfield and Henrico counties, all fireworks (including sparks) are banned. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, it is illegal to own, use, store, sell, or handle fireworks that explode, fly into the air/travel sideways, or fire projectiles into the air, unless you are a licensed contractor, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry. Residents of Goochland County are allowed to handle and purchase legal fireworks: sparks, fountains, pharaoh snakes, gun caps and wind turbines (sometimes called Whirligigs or Spinning Jennies). Fireworks in the City of Fairfax that explode, emit a flame or spark larger than 12 feet, or occur as a projectile are prohibited by the City of Fairfax`s Fire Code. Permits are required for the sale of all fireworks, with these permits only valid from June 1 to July 15 of each year. Some types of fireworks, such as fireworks, bottle rockets, and Roman candles, can be purchased legally in other areas, but are prohibited in the city of Fairfax for possession or use. Bringing unauthorized fireworks from other jurisdictions could result in a fine of up to $2,500 or up to a year in jail. However, there are “authorized fireworks” that can be legally sold and used in the state. The VDFP has a list on its website.
It is illegal for a person to intentionally detonate or detonate a chemical bomb that could generate smoke in a building used for public gatherings or regularly used by the public, including but not limited to schools, theaters, shops, office buildings, shopping malls, colossi and arenas. Any person convicted of violating this section is guilty of a Class 2 offence. Any person who (i) possesses materials that may be used to produce incendiary bombs or explosive materials or devices with the intent to produce incendiary bombs or explosive materials or devices, or (ii) manufactures, transports, distributes, possesses or uses an incendiary bomb or explosive materials or devices is guilty of a Class 5 crime. Any person who constructs, uses, places, sends or sends a counterfeit explosive device to intentionally make another person believe that the device is a bomb or explosive is guilty of a Class 6 crime. The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) states that in general, any fireworks that explode, move on the ground or in the air, or fire a projectile is illegal in the Commonwealth. Loudoun CountyConsumer fireworks such as sparks and ground wells can be owned and used on private property. The use of personal fireworks such as sparks is prohibited on public lands such as parks. Residents can purchase legal consumer fireworks at a local store or street stall that holds a fireworks retail license from the Loudoun County Fire Marshal`s Office.
Keep in mind that it`s not just lighting illegal fireworks that could get you in trouble in Virginia: banned items also can`t be stored, transported, or manufactured within state borders. Professional demonstrations may include some of the fireworks listed above if permission is granted in advance.
