The Legalities of Hosting a Firework Display In Arkansas
On July 4th, 1776, the first 13 states in America endorsed the Declaration of Independence. Centuries and many additional states later, our country continues to celebrate our independence on the 4th of July.
Americans celebrate this holiday with great barbeque, good company, and beautiful fireworks displays. Some people trek out to see official pyrotechnics while others opt to light fireworks on their personal property. However, many states (including Arkansas) have strict rules about fireworks — including some areas that don’t allow private firework shows at all. So if you’re looking to host a 4th of July party complete with a firework display, here’s what you’ll want to know before your event.
What To Consider When Lighting Fireworks
If you are hoping to put on a personal pyrotechnics show at your 4th of July party, you’ll need to check the county laws and city ordinances. The rules and regulations surrounding firework displays vary throughout the state of Arkansas — some towns have year-round bans on these colorful explosives.
Does My Town or City Allow Fireworks?
Before you spend money on a private fireworks show, research your local Arkansas laws to determine if you can set off pyrotechnics in your backyard. Unfortunately for folks who live in cities like Alma, Dyer, and Fort Smith, lighting fireworks is illegal in these areas.
The majority of Arkansas counties do allow personal firework displays, however, there are some strict rules surrounding their legal discharge. In order to follow the law, you need to investigate the dates and times for firework shows in your county.
For example, residents of Garfield, Gravette, and Pea Ridge can light fireworks from 12 P.M. to 12 A.M. on July 1st through the 7th.
Alternatively, locals in Clarksville and Prairie Grove are only permitted to set off fireworks on July 4th. So if you have leftover Independence Day fireworks, you can’t shoot them off on a later date.
Some cities, like Mulberry, allow fireworks from June 20th to July 10th. But these towns and cities in Arkansas are few and far between.
As you can see, many counties, cities, and towns have their own individual regulations about fireworks. It’s your responsibility to research your local laws before throwing a 4th of July party with a personal firework display.
Is There A Burn Ban In Effect?
Before you start lighting off fireworks, it’s important to check and see if your county has a current burn ban. When a burn ban is in effect, residents of the affected county are not allowed to light fires outside. This would include setting off fireworks, as the debris could cause forest fires and poor air quality.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture tracks burn bans across the state with an easy-to-read map. Take a look and make sure your current region is not under a burn ban.
What Types of Fireworks Are You Lighting?
Don’t assume the fireworks you buy in a store are legal in your area. Some counties in Arkansas have specific bans against bottle rockets and other fireworks attached to a stick.
Here’s a unique example. In Benton County, Lowell allows Roman candles. However, Gentry does not permit Roman candles. Depending upon where you buy your fireworks, you might purchase items that are not allowed in your individual area.
Request Legal Assistance from Hickey & Hull Attorneys Today
On July 4th, 2023, 42% of Americans celebrated by watching a fireworks display. With nearly half of the population participating in this activity, it’s easy to see why some individuals opt for a personal fireworks show at home.
But you can’t just host a 4th of July party anytime, anywhere. The different counties of Arkansas have varying rules about lighting fireworks — with some areas prohibiting fireworks entirely.
If you require representation following a holiday event gone awry, schedule a consultation with a legal professional at Hickey & Hull. Our practice has five Arkansas offices in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Little Rock, Mena, and Russellville. Find out more about the skilled members of the Hickey & Hull team here.