Brush Up on Fourth of July Fireworks Laws in Gig Harbor

This Independence Day, the Gig Harbor Police Department urges residents to celebrate safely.

Here are some laws to keep in mind this holiday season.

"Fireworks" means any composition or device designed to produce a visible or audible effect by combustion, deflagration, or detonation, and which meets the definition of articles pyrotechnic or consumer fireworks or display fireworks.

Within Gig Harbor city limits, fireworks can be sold by properly licensed and permitted fireworks vendors each year starting at noon on June 28 and ending at noon on July 5. 

Fireworks may only be used from noon on June 28 until noon on July 5. Fireworks may not be ignited between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.

Permitted sales and purchases in unincorporated Pierce County:

June 28: Noon to 11 p.m.

June 29 through July 4: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

July 5: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Permitted discharge in unincorporated Pierce County:

June 28: Noon and 11 p.m.

June 29 through July 3: 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.

July 4: 9 a.m. and midnight

July 5: 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. 

Two unobstructed exits are required at the fireworks stands. Each temporary fireworks stand shall have an adult in attendance at all times. No child or children under the age of 18 years shall be allowed inside the employee area of any temporary fireworks stand.

No licensee may sell any fireworks to any person under the age of 16. 

All fireworks must include the “Safe and Sane” designation (except toy caps and sparklers). Items specifically prohibited: Firecrackers, skyrockets, salutes, chasers, and bottle rockets.

Violation of fireworks law in Gig Harbor is a misdemeanor and can lead to a $1,000 fine.

Click here to read more about the fireworks law (Chapter 8.20).

For additional information or questions, contact the Gig Harbor Police Department at 253-851-2236.