Is Fireworks Legal in Massachusetts? (2026)
No. In Massachusetts, fireworks is prohibited. Massachusetts has the strictest fireworks laws in the United States. ALL consumer fireworks are banned, including sparklers. Under MGL ch. 148 § 39, it is illegal to possess, sell, transport, or use any fireworks of any kind without a professional display permit. Massachusetts is the only state that bans sparklers outright. The State Fire Marshal enforces the law aggressively. Penalties include fines up to $100 for first offense and up to $1,000 and 1 year imprisonment for subsequent offenses..
Key facts
- Status
- Prohibited
- Permit required
- No
- Violation type
- misdemeanor
- Jurisdiction
- Massachusetts
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-21
Fireworks laws in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, the possession, sale, transportation, and use of fireworks are strictly prohibited by statute. Chapter 148, section 39 of the Massachusetts General Laws (MGL c. 148 § 39) explicitly bans all consumer fireworks without a permit for supervised public displays. This prohibition is comprehensive, uniquely encompassing even sparklers, which are legal in most other states. The State Fire Marshal is tasked with enforcing these stringent regulations. Violations of MGL c. 148 § 39 carry significant penalties. A first offense can result in a fine of up to $100. Subsequent offenses are treated more severely, with potential fines reaching up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. These penalties underscore the state's commitment to preventing unauthorized fireworks activities. While the general rule is prohibition, the only recognized exception is for permitted professional fireworks displays. These displays must be authorized by a permit issued by the Fire Marshal. There are no other exceptions for consumer use, and this applies to both residents and individuals traveling through or into Massachusetts. Travelers should be particularly aware that bringing any type of fireworks, including sparklers, into the state is illegal.
Frequently asked questions
Is fireworks legal in Massachusetts for travelers?
For travelers visiting Massachusetts, fireworks is currently prohibited. In Massachusetts, the possession, sale, transportation, and use of fireworks are strictly prohibited by statute. Chapter 148, section 39 of the Massachusetts General Laws (MGL c. 148 § 39) explicitly bans all consumer fireworks without a permit for supervised public displays. This prohibition is comprehensive, uniquely encompassing even sparklers, which are legal in most other states. The State Fire Marshal is tasked with enforcing these stringent regulations. Violations of MGL c. 148 § 39 carry significant penalties. A first offense can result in a fine of up to $100. Subsequent offenses are treated more severely, with potential fines reaching up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. These penalties underscore the state's commitment to preventing unauthorized fireworks activities. While the general rule is prohibition, the only recognized exception is for permitted professional fireworks displays. These displays must be authorized by a permit issued by the Fire Marshal. There are no other exceptions for consumer use, and this applies to both residents and individuals traveling through or into Massachusetts. Travelers should be particularly aware that bringing any type of fireworks, including sparklers, into the state is illegal.
Do I need a permit for fireworks in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts does not specifically require a permit for fireworks, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport fireworks through Massachusetts?
Transport laws for fireworks in Massachusetts depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in Massachusetts, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for fireworks violations in Massachusetts?
Penalties for fireworks violations in Massachusetts vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.