Houston Fire Department - Safety And Public Education - Fireworks ...

Houston Fire Department

Fireworks Safety

Helpful Links Harris County Fire Marshal Office Website Possession and Transportation of fireworks, Texas House Bill 1813

The use of fireworks are not only illegal in the City and parts of the County but they are also are very dangerous.

It is illegal to discharge fireworks the City of Houston. A Texas House Bill allows for the transportation of fireworks, however there are restrictions including where the fireworks are located inside the vehicle and if they are opened or unopened. See HB1813 for more information >>>

The City will continue to enforce, in compliance with state law, fire and safety regulations within the city.

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.

Warnings are no longer used because of the seriousness of the firework laws. 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.

Even though it is legal to buy, possess, and use consumer fireworks (1.4G) in the unincorporated areas of Harris County, there are some places you cannot use fireworks even in the unincorporated county. Such as near churches, hospitals an asylum, a licensed child care center, or a public or private primary or secondary school or institution of higher education unless the person receives authorization in writing from that organization.

Although Fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the holiday season, they can be dangerous when used improperly; causing serious burn and eye injuries.

During annual celebrations and holidays, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) an estimated 19,500 fires started by fireworks were reported to local US fire departments each year. Although firework injuries area seen in all age groups, more than one-third of the victims are under the age of 15. The NFPA estimates about 44 percent of injuries are due to burns. For example, sparklers get as hot as 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, account for 25 percent injuries seen at hospitals.

Citizens should report all complaints regarding the illegal use of fireworks directly to the HPD Tel-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.