What Fireworks Are Legal in Michigan?

Michigan’s Fireworks Safety Act was amended in 2018 to give local municipalities more control over fireworks use — and to place tighter restrictions on individuals. Under this law, “consumer-grade” fireworks are legal for purchase and use by residents, but only under specific conditions.

Legal consumer fireworks include aerial fireworks like bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers. "Low-impact" fireworks such as sparklers and toy snakes are also allowed, and they can be used more freely.

However, the window of time when you're legally allowed to use these fireworks is narrow, and violating that window can land you with a hefty ticket or worse.

When Can You Use Fireworks in Michigan?

State law requires local governments to allow the use of consumer-grade fireworks on the following days:

• Between June 29 and July 4 until 11:45 PM each night
• On July 5 if it falls on a Friday or Saturday (again, until 11:45 PM)

Other legalized dates include around New Year's Eve, Memorial Day, and Labor Day, but for the Fourth of July holiday specifically, you’re generally limited to those 6-7 days.

Outside of these dates, your local city or township likely prohibits the use of fireworks, and launching them anyway can result in a civil infraction fine of up to $1,000 per violation.

Also be aware that cities and townships can pass ordinances to further restrict the days and hours fireworks are allowed, as long as they don’t prohibit use during the minimum times set by state law.

Where You Can’t Use Fireworks

Even during the legal window, fireworks are NOT allowed to be used:

• On public property like parks, sidewalks, and streets
• On school property
• On religious or government property
• Without the express permission of the property owner, if on private property

You also cannot legally light fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. That’s right — if you’ve had a few drinks and start shooting off rockets, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, or worse, if someone is injured or property is damaged.

Criminal Charges Related to Fireworks in Michigan

Around the Fourth of July, it’s not uncommon for police departments across Michigan to see an uptick in criminal activity related to fireworks. The idea of lighting fireworks might seem like harmless fun, but if it goes wrong, the legal consequences can be severe.

Common Fireworks-Related Charges:

• Unlawful Use of Fireworks: A civil infraction with fines up to $1,000. Multiple offenses can lead to criminal charges.
• Disorderly Conduct: If your fireworks disturb the peace, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, carrying up to 93 days in jail and fines.
• Property Damage: If you accidentally damage someone’s property, you could be charged with malicious destruction of property—a criminal offense. Damages over $1,000 can bump this up to a felony.
• Injury to Another Person: If your fireworks injure someone, you may be liable both criminally and civilly. Serious injuries can escalate charges to aggravated assault or even involuntary manslaughter in tragic cases.
• Operating Under the Influence: If you are lighting fireworks while intoxicated and cause an incident, law enforcement can arrest you for operating under the influence or reckless endangerment.

And don’t forget: setting off fireworks during a burn ban or in dangerously dry conditions can result in charges related to negligence or arson if a fire spreads.

When Fireworks Become a Felony

While everyone loves a good backyard show, violating Michigan’s fireworks laws in certain circumstances can lead to felony-level offenses. The law treats any willful or negligent act that causes significant injury or property damage with serious consequences.

Examples of felony fireworks charges in Michigan include:

• Arson: If your fireworks start a fire that causes damages to a structure or forest area, you can be charged with arson, which is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison depending on the extent of the damage.
• Malicious Destruction of Property (MDOP): Property damage exceeding $1,000 can land you with a felony MDOP charge. The higher the damage, the greater the potential prison time — up to 10 years.
• Felonious Assault: Using fireworks in a threatening or reckless way toward another person, especially while intoxicated, can be viewed as felonious assault. This carries a maximum penalty of 4 years in prison.

The bottom line: even if you didn’t intend to harm anyone, if your fireworks cause serious consequences, prosecutors may file serious charges against you.

What to Do If You're Arrested for a Fireworks-Related Offense

If your 4th of July celebration ends in flashing police lights and a trip to the county jail, it’s not the end of the world — but it is something to take seriously. Whether you’re facing a civil infraction, misdemeanor, or something as serious as a felony, knowing your rights and having the right legal representation is critical.

The prosecution must always prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. That includes every element of the charge. For example, if you're charged with MDOP, they need to prove:

• You willfully damaged property
• The property didn’t belong to you
• The value of the damage was above the felony threshold

If any one of those pieces falls apart under scrutiny, the charge can be reduced — or dismissed entirely.

We’ve helped clients get fireworks and related charges thrown out by challenging police reports, crossing witnesses at preliminary examinations, and, when needed, negotiating responsible plea agreements that avoid jail time.

If you've been charged, don't wait for the summer to cool off before taking action. Call criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation. We’ve handled criminal defense cases across Michigan and can walk you through the next steps to protect your freedom and your record.

Other July 4th Legal Issues to Watch For

Fireworks aren’t the only legal pitfall during the Fourth of July. Parties, alcohol, and large gatherings often lead to other common offenses:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI): Drunk driving arrests spike around major holidays. An OWI is serious and can lead to jail time, loss of license, and thousands in fines.
• Disorderly Conduct: Too much partying? Loud music and fights can bring the cops to your door and lead to misdemeanor charges.
• Minor in Possession (MIP): If underage guests are drinking at your party, and especially if you're the host, you may be liable.

If you're facing charges from Ubering home drunk to a fight at the fireworks show, a solid defense can protect your rights and minimize the outcome. Our legal team has the experience you need and the results to prove it.

Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Michigan?

Facing criminal charges is stressful — especially after what was supposed to be a night of celebration. The key to minimizing the impact is taking the right steps early on. That means hiring a defense attorney who knows Michigan law, your local courts, and can push for the best outcome possible.

Whether you're facing a simple citation or a serious felony, criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria is ready to help. We offer free consultations and handle cases throughout Southeast Michigan. From district courts in Plymouth, Canton, and Novi, to circuit courts in Wayne, Oakland, and Washtenaw counties, we’ve done it all.

Don’t let one night ruin your future. Call us at (734) 453-7806 and schedule your free consultation today.

Conclusion

Fireworks are a time-honored tradition in Michigan, but the legal consequences of using them improperly can turn your celebration into a criminal case. From thousand-dollar fines to felonies that impact your future, the laws surrounding fireworks are no joke.

Know the law before you light the fuse. Follow local ordinances, stay sober, and respect your neighbors’ space. But if things go south and you find yourself facing charges, don’t panic. Contact our office, and we’ll build a defense that works to get you the best possible resolution.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July — and if you need us, we’re just a phone call away.