The Tacoma Fire Department encourages you and your family to attend a public fireworks display to enjoy fireworks. All Fireworks are illegal in the City of Tacoma. Violators are subject to a $257 dollar fine and the confiscation of their fireworks. Please call
(253) 798-4722 to report suspected violations.
Fireworks Flyer - Click here for more information.
State Fireworks Injury Data - Learn more about fireworks related injuries in Washington State.
Freedom Fair Events - Click here to learn more about Tacoma's fantastic Freedom Fair.
Burn Prevention - Click here to learn more about Burn Prevention.
If you have any further questions, please call the Fire Prevention and Preparedness Bureau at (253) 591-5740.
The 4th of July is a fun and special holiday for many, however, it can also be a very dangerous one. Here are some commonly asked questions about fireworks:
In the city of Tacoma, it is unlawful to purchase, possess or discharge any fireworks, with the exception of display fireworks discharged by professionals at a sanctioned community event.
Fireworks were originally banned in 1992 following a very dry spring. Officials were concerned about a high fire danger and limited the discharge to one day only. In a close vote the following spring, the City Council banned fireworks completely. However, the deciding factor was not because of weather related conditions, but because of the dangers to citizen's and property. After much debate and in a close vote in May of 1998, the City Council decided to keep the ban in place. Simply put, with the number of people who live in the city and with our houses and buildings so close together (as opposed to the suburbs or the country) it just isn't safe to use fireworks.
If you buy fireworks and bring them to Tacoma you risk being fined and having them confiscated because they are not legal here. Remember, many of the fireworks purchased on a Reservation are only legal to discharge on the Reservation.
Let someone else do the work - there are many free shows put on by professionals. These shows include spectacular fireworks that you couldn't get. You'll be amazed at what you see. Join us for outrageous fun at the Freedom Fair - it's the best show around!