Safe Celebrations
City of Seattle residents who want to include fireworks in their July 4th celebration should plan to attend a public display, such as those over Elliott Bay and Lake Union.

Private use, sale, or possession of fireworks is prohibited in the City of Seattle. The private use of fireworks without a permit in the city of Seattle is punishable by a fine and possible time in jail.

Seattle is not alone in this decision; at least 30 cities in Washington State have a ban on the use, sale, or possession of fireworks. Many cities and local jurisdictions limit the hours of fireworks sales and discharge. Contact the local fire department where you plan to celebrate to learn if private use of fireworks is allowed.