Want to have a blast on July 4? Here are 5 things to know about fireworks laws in NC

It happens every year: After the big Fourth of July fireworks displays hosted by the cities and towns, someone decides to keep the party going with their own backyard display.

But amateurs shooting fireworks isn’t just unsafe, it’s against the law in North Carolina. Here’s what you need to know about state laws governing pyrotechnics.

1. What laws address fireworks?

Fireworks are considered pyrotechnics. Chapter 14, article 54 of the N.C. General Statutes covers pyrotechnics and defines them as “any and all kinds of fireworks and explosives, which are used for exhibitions or amusement purposes.” The manufacture, sale and use of pyrotechnics are prohibited.

2. Why is my city or town allowed to set them off?

There are exceptions that allow fireworks to be used for an exhibition or display at a concert or public event. Those who “exhibit, use, handle, or discharge pyrotechnics in connection with a concert or public exhibition” must have completed the proper training and obtained a license, as outlined in Article 82A of Chapter 58 of the North Carolina General Statutes. Permission must be granted by the governing body in the city, town, or county where the display will occur unless they occur at state universities or on buildings or lands owned by the state in which case the state grants permission. A provision also allows for production companies to handle pyrotechnics if the set is closed to the public or separated from the public by a minimum of 500 feet.

3. What happens to violators?

Offenses occurring outdoors are considered class 2 misdemeanors, and offenses occurring indoors are considered class 1 misdemeanors. The laws are enforced by the local law enforcement agency. Punishments can include community service or imprisonment.

More Fourth of July fun:Southport on parade: How a tiny coastal city became home to the N.C. 4th of July Festival

4. What is allowed?

The general statute states some items are permitted. They include explosive caps designed for toy pistols; “snake and glow worms;” smoke devices producing white or colored smoke; noisemakers, such as party poppers, string poppers, and snappers or drop pops; wire sparklers; and “other sparkling devices, which emit showers of sparks and sometimes a whistling or crackling effect when burning, do not detonate or explode, do not spin, are hand-held or ground-based, cannot propel themselves through the air, and contain not more than 75 grams of chemical compound per tube, or not more than a total of 200 grams if multiple tubes are used.”

5. What’s the best way to enjoy fireworks on July 4th?

Try checking out one of the local Wilmington area displays.