From spark to suit: A legal guide for July 4 revelers in Arizona
Posted
David Shapiro
Submitted photo
Even during the legal window, fireworks are prohibited on public property. That includes city parks, public sidewalks, streets, school grounds, and state or federal land, including forest areas.”
The Fourth of July is a time for cookouts, fireworks and patriotic pride, but in Arizona, the line between celebration and citation can be thin. Every year, injuries and legal problems arise from fireworks gone wrong, many of which could be avoided with a little foresight.
Whether you’re lighting sparklers in your backyard or attending a neighborhood gathering, it’s important to know what’s legal, what’s not legal and what to do if someone gets hurt. Here’s what every Arizonan should know to keep their Fourth of July fun, safe and on the right side of the law.
When fireworks are legal in Arizona
Arizona law allows consumer fireworks to be sold and used during specific windows around major holidays. For the Fourth of July, you can legally use fireworks from June 24 through July 6. Using fireworks outside of these dates can lead to fines and possible misdemeanor charges depending on the city.
Just as important as when you use fireworks is what kind you can use. Legal fireworks in Arizona include ground spinners, snappers, sparklers, smoke devices, snakes and fountains. Illegal fireworks in Arizona for personal use include rockets and aerial fireworks, explosive devices and anything that rises into the air and explodes.
Where fireworks are not allowed
Even during the legal window, fireworks are prohibited on public property. That includes city parks, public sidewalks, streets, school grounds, and state or federal land, including forest areas.
Arizona is particularly fire-prone during the summer, and using fireworks in dry, grassy or wooded areas can lead to wildfires. Fire departments across the state are on high alert, and violating location-based restrictions can lead to citations, or worse, civil liability if a fire breaks out.
What happens if you’re injured by fireworks?
Fourth of July celebrations often lead to emergency room visits. Fireworks can cause burns, eye injuries and even long-term disability if not handled properly. If you’ve been injured by fireworks, your legal options vary depending on who is responsible.
Injured by a private individual?
If you were hurt by fireworks at a friend or neighbor’s house, you may have a claim under premises liability or negligence law. The homeowner may be responsible if they failed to supervise the activity, used illegal fireworks or didn’t warn guests about obvious hazards. Homeowners insurance may provide coverage, but the claim will depend on the specific facts.
Injured at a commercial display or event?
If a business or event organizer caused the injury (e.g., a faulty fireworks show), your claim would likely fall under commercial liability or even product liability if defective fireworks were involved. These cases can involve deeper investigations, expert testimony and larger damages depending on the scope of the injury and the entity’s level of negligence.
Either way, if you or a loved one is injured by fireworks, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately and to document the incident. Photos, witness names and preserving the remnants of the fireworks can help your attorney evaluate and pursue a claim.
Fireworks are a fun and festive way to mark America’s birthday, but safety and legality must come first. If you’re hosting, remember you could be legally responsible for injuries that occur on your property.
If you or a loved one is injured this holiday, don’t hesitate to consult a personal injury attorney to understand your rights. Freedom is worth celebrating, but not at the cost of your health or someone else’s safety.
Editor’s note: Attorney and Scottsdale native David Shapiro is founder of Shapiro Law Team, with offices in Phoenix and Mesa. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
