Fireworks Laws & Safety


Significance of Fireworks

America is a nation fought for and built on the ideals of freedom and the earthshaking struggle to achieve such freedom, independence, and sovereignty transcends time. A day after signing the Declaration of Independence on July 2nd, 1776, John Adam’s wrote a letter to his wife and said:

The second day of July 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.

John Adams, who went on to become the second President of the United States, accurately assessed the significance and value to which future American’s would place on the official birthday of our beloved country.

Fireworks Laws

For your protection, the City of Stanwood strongly advocates public awareness of Washington State fireworks laws and the laws that apply to the city, county, and state. Before you celebrate your Fourth of July with fireworks, be sure to research and educate yourself on the relevant fireworks laws in our area.

Unincorporated Snohomish County Fireworks Laws

Snohomish County has a list of specific fireworks that they have deemed illegal. They prohibit possession of these fireworks and their ignition within the county limits. For more information regarding fireworks that Snohomish County has banned or deemed illegal, please reference the State of Washington’s Illegal Explosive Devices Information Brochure (PDF).

City of Stanwood Fireworks Laws

The City of Stanwood permits the ignition of fireworks between the following dates and times:

  • June 28th: Noon to 11 pm
  • June 29th through July 3rd: 9 am to 11 pm
  • July 4th: 9 am to Midnight
  • July 5th: 9 am to 11 pm
  • December 31st: 6 pm to 1 am of January 1st of the subsequent year

View the City of Stanwood Fireworks Ordinance (1379, Section 3, 2014) (PDF) or the Stanwood Municipal Code for more information.

Washington State Fireworks Laws

The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) is the compilation of all permanent laws that are currently in effect in the United States, State of Washington. The specific RCW Chapter that outlines the state's fireworks laws is RCW 70.77.

Fireworks Safety Tips

A few things to keep in mind when purchasing or lighting fireworks:

  • Use only fireworks sold at state-licensed fireworks stands. Illegal fireworks are subject to immediate confiscation and possible criminal charges.
  • Use fireworks only during legal times per state law.
  • Be prepared before you light fireworks.
  • Use legal fireworks available at licensed outlets.
  • Store Fireworks out of children’s reach.
  • Keep pets safe indoors. License your pets in case they are lost during the 4th of July festivities.
  • Always keep water handy.
  • Only adults should light fireworks.
  • Use outdoors only.
  • Do not throw fireworks or hold in your hand.
  • Protect your eyes.
  • Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
  • Never relight a "dud".
  • Soak used fireworks in water.
  • Be considerate. Clean up used fireworks.
  • Keep matches and lighters away from children.

Stay safe, and enjoy July 4th!