Is it legal to shoot fireworks in NC? What to know ahead of New Year’s Eve
The new year is nearly here, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive fireworks display?
However, North Carolina law prohibits certain fireworks, even in the spirit of ushering in 2026. So which ones are illegal? And what’s the best way to stay safe?
Here’s what to know ahead of your New Year’s Eve celebrations:
Are fireworks legal in NC?
Some are.
Devices that “emit showers of sparks,” don’t fly, spin or explode and are ground-based are generally OK for celebrations, according to North Carolina law. These include:
- Wire sparklers
- Snake and glow worms
- Smoke devices
- Party poppers, string poppers and other trick noise makers
Which fireworks are illegal in NC?
North Carolina doesn’t explicitly ban fireworks, but certain ones are prohibited.
“A simple rule of thumb; anything that explodes or is projected into the air is illegal,” according to City of Apex officials.
This means most aerials are a no-go, as are firecrackers, ground spinners, Roman candles and bottle rockets.
What’s the penalty for having illegal fireworks in NC?
Anyone caught using illegal fireworks faces a misdemeanor charge punishable by a maximum $500 fine and/or up to six months in jail, per the City of Gastonia Fire Department.
Some North Carolinians will cross state lines to procure fireworks in South Carolina and other states where regulations are more relaxed. Officials warn this is still illegal and “subject to prosecution.”
How old do you have to be to buy fireworks in NC?
You must be at least 16 years old to purchase legal fireworks in North Carolina, state law says.
In March, state lawmakers proposed legislation to raise the minimum purchasing age for fireworks to 18, the Rock Hill Herald previously reported. The bill has since been referred to the Senate’s Rules and Operations Committee.
Fireworks safety tips
If you plan to ring in the new year with pyrotechnics, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests the following fireworks safety tips:
- Never let children play with or light fireworks, including sparklers.
- Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies.
- Don’t handle fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Ignite fireworks one at a time, then back up quickly.
- Do not try to re-light or pick up fireworks that haven’t fully ignited.
- Never hold fireworks in hand unless the instructions say so.
- Follow all instructions and warnings on fireworks packaging carefully.
This story was originally published December 29, 2025 at 2:08 PM with the headline "Is it legal to shoot fireworks in NC? What to know ahead of New Year’s Eve."