Legal and Illegal Fireworks in Oneida County

The Utica Police Department tells us what fireworks are lawfully permitted and not permitted in Oneida County.

A released statement states that In New York State, the only fireworks that are legally permitted to be set off without a permit or license are Sparkling Devices.

Sparkling devices are defined by NYS as ground-based or handheld devices that produce a shower of colored sparks and or a colored flame, audible crackling or whistling noise and smoke. About two years ago a law change allowed for the purchase and legal use of certain types of fireworks: sparklers, ground-based sparklers, novelties like poppers and smoke balls, those poppers you throw at the ground and they make a noise.

The following fireworks are illegal statewide:

• firecrackers
• bottle rockets
• roman candles
• spinners
• aerial devices
• larger, more dangerous forms of explosives- Roman Candles, M-80s.

You're asked to be respectful to your neighbors as these devices are not only loud but dangerous. Pets can be traumatized by the noise from these explosive devices.

Unlawful possession and use of fireworks in New York State can range from a violation to a Class A misdemeanor and cost you up to one year in jail and a $1,000.00 fine (New York State Penal Law § 270.00).