Tempted to indulge in fireworks this NYE? Make sure you know the law
If you’re looking to ring in the new year with the explosive joy of fireworks, make sure you know the rules. It could cost you a hefty fine. Or a finger.
Here’s what you need to know about fireworks in Pierce County.
Can you set off fireworks in Tacoma?
It is illegal to purchase, possess or discharge any fireworks in Tacoma. The only exception is for firework displays put on by professionals who’ve obtained the right permits beforehand.
The same goes for Gig Harbor, where it’s completely illegal to use fireworks within the city limits and punishable with a $1,000 fine.
For the cities of Puyallup, Bonney Lake, University Place and Sumner, fireworks can only be discharged on July 4th, not New Year’s Eve.
Where can you set off fireworks?
Fireworks can be discharged in Fife, Orting and unincorporated Pierce County on private property with the owner’s permission between 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. on Jan. 1.
In Lakewood and Roy, you can discharge fireworks between 11 a.m. on Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. on Jan 1.
You can also purchase and set off legal fireworks on land owned by the Puyallup Tribe, as long as they aren’t discharged within 1,000 feet of signs prohibiting use.
Discharging fireworks in a prohibited area on tribal land could land you a $500 fine, according to Puyallup Tribal code.
And remember, these laws are restricted to their jurisdictions. If you purchase fireworks legally but bring them to a different city where it’s banned, you risk a fine.
How can I report illegal firework use?
Although your instinct might be to call 911 when encountering illegal fireworks, authorities encourage residents to report fireworks-related complaints to the South Sound 911 non-emergency line at 253-287-4455.
If something has caught on fire due to firework use or if there’s any other active emergency occurring, call 911.
How do you safely handle fireworks?
If you plan on lighting fireworks, Pierce County Fire Marshal Ken Rice has a few pointers for ensuring your safety.
Never light a firework in your hands, he said, unless you’re itching to lose a few fingers. Instead put them on a safe, non-combustible surface away from people and property.
To properly dispose of both used and unused fireworks, scoop them up with a shovel and put them in a bucket of water until the next day, he said. Then dispose of the fireworks in the trash, not recycling.
“We get at least half a dozen fires every year where people have cleaned up fireworks, and they put them in their trash or recycle bin, which are plastic and full of combustibles,” Rice said. “Don’t ever assume that [fireworks] are out.”
The National Safety Council has a full list of additional safety tips on its website.
