ATLANTA — The Fourth of July is just around the corner. So, you can count on more than a few people lighting fireworks as part of their celebrations.
The sale and use of consumer fireworks is legal in Georgia. While it’s not without controversy in many metro Atlanta residential neighborhoods, it is nonetheless common to hear them boom off late into the night on holidays.
But just how late are people allowed to light fireworks? Here’s what to know about Georgia’s laws.
Georgia fireworks laws for Fourth of July | Timing
- Fourth of July, when fireworks are allowed: Georgia rules for fireworks use state that on the Fourth of July, it’s legal to light fireworks on July 3 and July 4 after 10 a.m. and run until 11:59 p.m.
- What does the law state? Normally, fireworks can be used any day only between 10 a.m. and 11:59 p.m., but the only exception is on New Year’s Eve, which is identified as an exception to go later until 1 a.m.
- The Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve are one of several holiday periods exempted from a clause in the daily language of the rule, which notes the 10 a.m.-11:59 p.m. time period is allowed “unless during such times the noise from such use or ignition is not in compliance with a noise ordinance of a county or municipal corporation.”
Georgia fireworks laws for Fourth of July | Location
There are clear rules on where fireworks can be lit. Here’s the outline from the Marietta Fire Department:
- Roadways or any public rights of way are off limits.
- Public parks, historic sites, recreational areas, or any other property owned or operated by a state or local government is off limits.
- It’s off limits within 100 yards of a hospital, nursing home, or other healthcare facility.
- It’s also off limits within 100 yards of the following:
- Any public or private electric substation;
- Electric plant;
- Facility engaged in the production, refining, processing, or blending of any flammable or combustible liquids or gases;
- Facility engaged in the retail sale of gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids or gases where the volume stored is in excess of 500 gallons;
- Waste-water treatment plant;
- Water treatment plant;
- Airport/heliport.
More Georgia fireworks laws
Georgia Code §25-10-2.1 makes it unlawful to light fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is a misdemeanor offense…