LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — The Independence Day holiday means numerous fireworks shows will brighten the skies at dusk on July 4 and surrounding days. Some families like to celebrate with their own fireworks, but it's crucial to know what Loudoun County allows before setting them off.
Loudoun County only allows select fireworks sold at fire marshal-approved stands for residents to use. Generally, fireworks like sparklers and ground-based fountains are allowed to be used on private property. The fireworks stands may be open from June 15 to July 15.
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Fireworks that rise into the air, explode, travel laterally on the ground or emit projectiles are illegal to possess or use in Loudoun County and across Virginia. The offense could lead to a class 1 misdemeanor charge.
Fireworks stands approved by the fire marshal in Loudoun County are:
- Ashburn Southern Walk Village Center - 43331 Southern Walk Plaza, Ashburn, VA
- Farmwell Hunt Plaza - 43930 Farmwell Hunt Plaza, Ashburn, VA
- Ashburn Village Shopping Center - 44110 Ashburn Shopping Plaza, Ashburn, VA
- Ashburn Farms - 43330 Junction Plaza, Ashburn, VA
- Leesburg Walmart - 19360 Compass Creek Pkwy., Leesburg, VA
- Costco - 1300 Edward's Ferry Rd., Leesburg, VA
- Battlefield Shopping Center - 1019 Edwards Ferry Rd NE, Leesburg, VA
- Virginia Village - 40 Catoctin Circle, Leesburg, VA
- Potomac Station - 635 Potomac Station Drive, Leesburg, VA
- Purcellville Shoppes at Maple and Main - 711 Main Street, Purcellville, VA
- Stone Ridge Shopping Center - 42010 Village Center Plaza, Aldie
- Walmart - 24635 Dulles Landing Drive, Sterling, VA
- Loudoun Center - 25050 Riding Plaza, Chantilly, VA
- Sterling Sam's Club (in store) - 45425 Dulles Crossing Plaza Walmart, Sterling, VA
- Walmart (in store) - 45415 Dulles Crossing Plaza, Sterling, VA
- Walmart (Sterling) - 45415 Dulles Crossing Plaza, Sterling, VA
- Sterling Park Shopping Center 250 South Sterling Blvd, Sterling, VA
- Potomac Run Plaza - 46200 Potomac Run Plaza, Sterling, VA
- Target (in store) Potomac Run Plaza - 46201 Potomac Run Plaza, Sterling, VA
- Dulles Town Center - 45575 Dulles Eastern Plaza, Sterling, VA
- Costco - 21398 Price Cascades Plaza, Sterling, VA
- Great Falls Plaza - 20789 Great Falls Plaza, Sterling, VA
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue recommends attending a public fireworks show as the safest way to enjoy fireworks. Fireworks shows may set their own policies on whether permitted fireworks like sparklers are banned at their events. Check each event website to see if personal fireworks use is not allowed.
SEE ALSO: July 4th 2024 Fireworks, Events Around Ashburn, Loudoun County
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's report on firework injuries and deaths, there were eight non-occupational fireworks-related deaths in 2023. Five of the deaths were tied to firework misuse, two were due to fireworks malfunction or misfire, and one had unknown circumstances. In all of 2023, the commission estimated there were 9,700 fireworks injuries resulting in emergency room visits.
Fireworks safety tips recommended by Loudoun County's fire department include:
- Do use only legal fireworks purchased from a retail stand with a Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office permit. Don't use illegal fireworks.
- Do use fireworks outdoors, a safe distance away from homes, and steer clear of brush, leaves, and flammable substances. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby. Don't light fireworks indoors.
- Do maintain constant adult supervision. Don't use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Do place fireworks on stable ground, never in a container, and ensure the device will not tip over when firing. Don't light fireworks in your hand. Never point or throw fireworks at anyone.
- Do soak spent fireworks in water for several hours before discarding into a fire-proof container. Keep the container outside, away from the home. Don't try to re-light a “dud” or malfunctioning firework.
- Be considerate of neighbors, since fireworks can disrupt those sleeping, scare pets, and can be traumatic for veterans.