The Houston Fire Department reminds citizens that it is illegal to discharge fireworks or to have fireworks in your possession in the City of Houston. Harris County residents should also be aware that HFD will be enforcing the fireworks ban in the Limited Purpose Annexation areas.
The fines are anywhere from $500 - $2000 for each individual firework. Each case is different and it would be up to a judge to determine the exact amount. Warnings are no longer used because of the seriousness of the firework laws.
There are inspectors and investigators from the Fire Marshal's office who patrol the City starting 10 days before the new year and the 4th of July to remind people of the laws and to answer questions. If there are any fireworks found, they will be confiscated.
If a minor is caught with fireworks, the parent or guardian will receive the fine even if they were unaware of the minor's possession and/or usage.
HFD encourages citizens who wish to view fireworks to attend one of the area's permitted public displays.
Citizens should report all complaints regarding the illegal use of fireworks directly to the HPD Tele-communicator (non-emergency line) at 713-884-3131. If the citizen believes that there may be a fire and/or medical emergency related to the use of fireworks, he/she should dial 9-1-1 and request the HFD.
The possession, manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited. Exceptions:1. Storage and handling of fireworks as permitted in Section 3304.2. The use of fireworks for display as permitted in Section 3308.3. Fireworks being transported in international, intrastate, or interstate commerce through the jurisdiction between points of origin and destination outside of the jurisdiction in accordance with all applicable municipal or state laws, ordinances, and regulations, provided the fireworks comply with federal regulations CPSC 16 CFR, Parts 1500-1507, and DOTn 49, Parts 100-178, for consumer fireworks. The provisions of this exception shall extend only to bona fide commercial transportation and distribution of fireworks in commercial quantities among manufacturers, wholesalers and dealers. Transportation shall be by way of established hazardous materials transportation routes through and around the jurisdiction.
3301.7 Seizure.
The code official is authorized to remove or cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner, at the expense of the owner, explosives, explosive materials or fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored, possessed or used in violation of this chapter.
