July 4 fireworks in Florida: What you need to know

FLORIDA - America will celebrate a major milestone on July 4, 2026 – the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

While there will be plenty of professional fireworks and drone displays in Orlando and around Central Florida, some people may want to light some small fireworks with family or friends.

If you're looking to light some personal fireworks at home, here are the rules on which fireworks are OK and not OK (and which ones to leave to the professionals).

Are fireworks legal in Florida?

Yes, but there are specific rules. Fireworks are only allowed on three holidays each year: 

• New Year's Eve, December 31
• New Year's Day, January 1
• Independence Day, July 4

Fireworks can only be sold during certain times of the year:

• June 20 - July 5
• December 10 - January 2.

What types of fireworks are legal?

Under Florida law, a "firework" is described as "any combustible or explosive composition…prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect."

That includes: firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, blank cartridges and toy cannons that use explosives. 

What about sparklers, fountains, and snappers?

Sparklers, fountains, snappers, glow worms, smoke bombs, party poppers, trick noisemakers, etc., are also OK. They're not defined as fireworks under Florida law, but make sure to use them safely and with adult supervision.

Who can buy fireworks?

You have to be at least 18 to purchase fireworks in Florida.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner: Celebrate America 250 and light fireworks responsibly

What they're saying:

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said recent summer rains have eased drought concerns across the state, but still encouraged people to be responsible and use caution when lighting small, consumer-grade fireworks.

"The past six months have been one of the state’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory, and though recent rains have helped rein in drought conditions, the risk of wildfire still exists in Florida and needs to be taken seriously," said Commissioner Simpson in a statement.

 "As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding with fun, fireworks, and outdoor cookouts, let us do so responsibly to keep our communities and our first responders safe."

Can you light fireworks during a burn ban?

A "burn ban" is issued when the Keetch-Byram drought index (KBDI) reaches or exceeds 500. Under a burn ban, personal open fires are not allowed, including camp fires, bonfires, yard burning, and personal fireworks. Professional, permitted fireworks displays, such as those for the Fourth of July, are typically still OK! 

According to the Florida Forest Service, 10 of the 67 counties in Florida are under a burn ban (as of June 24):

• Charlotte
• Collier
• DeSoto
• Glades
• Manatee
• Orange
• Osceola
• Sarasota

Beyond the law: Firework safety

What you can do:

• Read and follow instructions carefully.
• Place fireworks flat and maintain a safe distance.
• Use outdoors, away from buildings, dry grass or flammable materials.
• Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
• Do not relight a dud.
• Wear protective gear like safety goggles and gloves.
• Only purchase from licensed sellers and avoid homemade fireworks.
• Avoid drugs when using fireworks.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and cleaning up all debris.
• Call 911 for serious injuries or out-of-control fires.

Editor's note: Our article has been updated to include a statement from Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson on Fourth of July fireworks, as well as explanations of a burn ban and what counties are under a burn ban – and which ones are not.

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