What Fireworks Are Legal In Rhode Island

Police departments across Rhode Island have reported an increase in complaints about loud fireworks in recent weeks. With large Fourth of July fireworks displayed canceled in Providence, Newport, South Kingstown and other communities, it seems many residents are turning to their own backyards for Independence Day celebrations.

Here in Rhode Island, the only fireworks that can legally be purchased and used are hand-held sparklers and ground fireworks, according to the office of the state fire marshal. Ground-based fireworks include those that create a shower of sparks as their main effect. Colored flames, crackling, whistling and smoke are also allowed, as long as they do not produce explode or produce a loud report.

Anything that launches into the air or fires projectiles is illegal.

Here's a look at what common fireworks are allowed or banned in Rhode Island.

Legal

• Ground-based sparklers
• Hand-held sparklers
• Flitter sparklers
• Wheel spinners
• Party poppers
• Snappers
• Smoke "bombs"
• Snakes
• Glow worms
• Illuminating torches

Illegal

• Firecrackers
• Rockets
• Roman candles
• Mortars
• Anything that launches into the air or makes a loud "bang"

The state fire marshal's office encouraged residents not to call 911 to report a firework complaint, instead the local police department's nonemergency line.