Which fireworks are legal in Milwaukee, and who can buy them?
Alex GrothThe Fourth of July is almost here and that means lots of fireworks igniting the night sky across the state.
But if you're planning on shooting off you're own fireworks, you might want to reconsider. For one, it's illegal in Milwaukee, but it's also pretty dangerous; in 2022 there were 107 emergency department visits in Wisconsin caused by fireworks.
That being said, here's how you can celebrate Independence Day without violating the law — or losing any fingers.
Are fireworks illegal in Milwaukee?
You'll have to leave the fireworks to the professionals. The sale and use of fireworks is prohibited in the city of Milwaukee even if you purchased them outside of city limits. If you violate the city ordinance or let your kids light fireworks, you could face fines of up to $1,000.
Are fireworks legal in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties?
Laws around fireworks really vary depending on your community. Make sure to contact your local municipality to make sure you're not violating any rules.
Here are some examples:
- Waukesha: Nearly all fireworks are illegal to use by the general public, even though it may be legal for a wholesaler to sell them. If you want to use fireworks, you'll need to get a permit issued by the fire department, and those permits aren't issued to the general public.
- West Allis: Fireworks, meaning anything manufactured processed or packaged for exploding, emitting sparks or combustion, aren't allowed in the city of West Allis.
- Brookfield: Fireworks are illegal to sell or explode within the city without a user's permit.
What fireworks do I need a permit for in Wisconsin?
Any firework that explodes or leaves the ground is illegal to purchase, possess or use without a permit in Wisconsin, according to state law.
Here are the types of fireworks that can be used with a permit:
- Firecrackers
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Mortars
- Cherry bombs
- Aerial repeaters
What types of fireworks can you use in Wisconsin without a permit?
Most fireworks that don't leave the ground can be prohibited by local municipalities (like Milwaukee), but are OK without a permit. They include:
- Toy snakes
- Sparklers
- Smoke bombs
- Fountains
- Cones
- Spinners.
How do I get a permit to use fireworks in Wisconsin?
You'll need to get a firework permit from your mayor, village president or town chair, depending on the municipality.
The permit needs to have your name, address and the date on and after which the fireworks can be purchased, the type and quantity of fireworks, and the date and location of permitted use and any special conditions.
You'll also need to give a copy of the permit to the fire or police department at least two days before you use the fireworks.
How to safely use fireworks
Here are some firework safety tips to keep in mind:
- Read and follow all warning and label instructions
- Do not allow children to play with or ignite fireworks
- When you're igniting the fireworks, always wear eye protection and never have any part of your body over the firework
- Only use fireworks outside
- Make sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks
- Have water on hand, either from a garden hose or a bucket
- Make sure you light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from your house, or other flammable materials to prevent fires.
- Do not light fireworks near grassy areas and check the current fire situation to avoid starting a fire.
- Light one firework at a time
- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
- Never re-light a "dud" firework
- Never experiment or make your own fireworks
- Dispose of fireworks properly