​4th of July Fireworks in Reston: What's Legal, What's Not

The 4th of July holiday is fast approaching, and that means barbecue, beer and, of course, fireworks. But what are the actual laws in Reston when it comes to what fireworks you can set off?

Not surprisingly, laws are quite strict in such a densely populated location as Reston.

Permissible fireworks in Fairfax County are limited to non-explosive, non-projectile fireworks like sparklers, fountains, Pharaoh's serpents, caps for pistols or pinwheels.

After that, it's a long list of bans, according to the Fairfax County government, which states that fireworks must comply with the following:

• Shall be approved by the Fairfax County Fire Marshal
• Shall not explode.
• Shall not move or perform as a projectile.Shall not emit flame or sparks to a distance greater than 5 meters (16.4 feet).
• Shall not be thrown or placed on any surface or article where it can cause an unwanted fire.
• Shall not be used on private property without the approval of the property owner.
• Shall not be sold or stored on the property of another without the express written permission of the property owner.
• Shall not be sold to persons under the age of 18 unless the person is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
• Shall not be used or ignited inside, under, or within 50 feet from any structure.
• Shall not be used or ignited within 100 feet of tents or membrane structures.
• Shall not be used or ignited within 300 feet of all fireworks retail sales locations including fireworks stands.
• Smoking shall be prohibited inside or within 50 feet of fireworks retail sales areas including fireworks stands.
• Smoking shall be prohibited within 25 feet of all permissible (consumer) fireworks located outside.
• Use of permissible fireworks for any purpose other than the approved and intended use shall be prohibited.
• Fireworks shall be used in accordance with manufacturers' instructions/directions.

In addition, it's a good idea to keep the following safety tips in mind, the statement adds:

• During the use of permissible fireworks, minors should be supervised by a parent or legal guardian. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light one fireworks device at a time, then back to a safe distance immediately after lighting.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• Avoid buying or handling fireworks that come packaged in brown paper as this can often be a sign that the fireworks are commercial or display-type fireworks made for professional fireworks shows. These fireworks can pose a serious danger to consumers and the public.
• Adults should always supervise activities involving the use of permissible fireworks. Parents often do not realize there are more injuries from sparklers to children under five than from any other type of fireworks. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals.
• When using permissible fireworks, place the device on a flat surface, clear of any combustible material and clear of all buildings (50 feet).
• Keep all bystanders at least 25 feet away from fireworks.
• Read the directions.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

Image via National Park Service