Surprise gives reminders on fireworks laws

As residents and visitors plan Independence Day celebrations, the city of Surprise is reminding residents about the laws about the use of fireworks, including some recent state-level use changes.

Here’s a quick overview of fireworks use within the city of Surprise:

The minimum age for purchasing consumer fireworks is 16 years old.

Surrounding Independence Day, the use of consumer fireworks is allowed on private property within city limits, with the property owner’s consent, from June 24 through July 6.

During this period, fireworks use is still prohibited between the hours of 11 p.m. through 8 a.m. the following day.

On July 4, there is an exemption allowing the use of consumer fireworks between 11 p.m. through 1 a.m. July 5

The sale of permissible consumer fireworks, as defined under state law, is allowed from May 20 through July 6.

While consumer fireworks are permitted on private property within the city limits, they are still illegal to use anywhere on public property, including streets, sidewalks and parks.

Residents living in HOA communities should also look into what types of restrictions are in place in their neighborhoods regarding fireworks use in driveways and yards.

Note that the Surprise Fire-Medical Department may grant permits for the public display of fireworks upon application of a temporary use permit and proper inspection. Permits may be revoked during times of high fire danger warnings.

For information regarding the sale and use of consumer fireworks, including permissible dates for sale and use during other times of the year, visit surpriseaz.gov/FireworksUse.

To report a violation, contact Code Enforcement at 623-222-3013.