4th Of July Backyard Fireworks: What’s OK, What’s Not? [Block Talk]

ACROSS AMERICA — If it hasn’t already, the 4th of July fireworks season will start soon where you live. For Block Talk, Patch’s exclusive neighborhood etiquette column, we’re asking readers what they want the people living closest to them to know about setting off fireworks in the neighborhood.

Consumer fireworks are legal in 49 of 50 states and the District of Columbia, though some counties and cities may ban them. The more permissive fireworks laws have led to some friction in neighborhoods across the country. For example, dogs don’t dig fireworks, and the loud explosions can trigger PTSD among veterans and others.

On the other hand, the majority of Americans (56 percent) think setting off fireworks is a perfectly fun way to celebrate Independence Day, while 35 percent think DIY pyrotechnics are dangerous, according to a 2022 Rasmussen Reports national survey of 1,000 people.

Tell us below how you’d like for your neighbors to know about their fireworks displays and anything else you have to say about DIY fireworks displays. We won’t collect your email address.

About Block Talk

Block Talk is a regular Patch feature offering real-world advice from readers on how to resolve everyday neighborhood problems. If you have a neighborhood etiquette question or problem you'd like for us to consider, email beth.dalbey@patch.com, with Block Talk as the subject line.

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