Fireworks Information
Save it for the 4th!
Independence Day is just around the corner and West Pierce Fire & Rescue wants the community to celebrate safely. Each year thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – fires, devastating burns, other injuries, and even death.
July 4 is the busiest day of the year for West Pierce Fire & Rescue. Please be smart:
- Don’t mix alcohol and explosives
- Keep children away from fireworks
- Be mindful not only about where you light your fireworks, but also where they will fall
The best way to protect your family is not to use fireworks at home and instead, attend a public display.
For those who choose to discharge fireworks, the following questions will highlight what you need to know.
Are fireworks legal in my area?
Fireworks are legal in Lakewood and University Place. It is illegal to sell, possess or discharge fireworks in Steilacoom. The use of fireworks is prohibited on any fire district, school district, city park or city property.
When can I discharge fireworks?
City of Lakewood
July 4th from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
City of University Place
July 4th from 9 a.m. to midnight
Town of Steilacoom
It is illegal to discharge fireworks at any time
Is there an age limit to purchase fireworks?
In Washington State it is unlawful to sell fireworks to any person under 16 years of age. It is the responsibility of any seller of fireworks to obtain and/or require proof of age of any consumer at time of purchase.
What type of fireworks are permitted?
Permissible consumer fireworks within the City of Lakewood may be found here, which is based on Washington State law. Permissible consumer fireworks within the City of University Place may be found here.
What type of fireworks are prohibited?
Illegal fireworks are listed here on page 2.
The 4th of July can raise questions and concerns when it comes to safety. Here are some resources should you need to call someone for assistance.
If there is a code enforcement issue or concern related to fireworks, such as tall grass or improper sales in Lakewood, please contact:
West Pierce Fire & Rescue
253.983.4583
Code enforcement issues related to fire safety in the City of University Place can be triaged by the city’s public safety team:
UPPublicSafety@cityofup.com
253.798.CARE
To report the use of illegal fireworks or discharging fireworks outside of the designated dates or times, please use South Sound 911’s online reporting system. This system is operational June 28 – July 7, 2024.
To view a copy of the municipal codes within the District, please note the following links:
City of Lakewood – Fireworks ordinance (08.68.000)
City of University Place – Fireworks ordinance (9.20)
Town of Steilacoom – Fireworks ordinance (15.20.075 – 15.20.078)
As always, if there is a fire or emergency,
dial 9-1-1 immediately.
Safety Tips
Adult supervision around fireworks is important. Only adults should light fireworks and handle matches and lighters. Set family boundaries and talk with children about celebrating safely. Use care in selecting the area for discharge of fireworks, and the type of fireworks appropriate for that area. Weather conditions make grasses and vegetation dry and vulnerable to fire.
BE PREPARED.
Before you light fireworks:
Use legal fireworks, available at licensed stands within the District
Store fireworks out of children’s reach
Keep pets safe indoors
Always keep water nearby
BE SAFE.
When lighting fireworks:
Only adults should light fireworks
Only use outdoors
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”
BE RESPONSIBLE.
After you finish:
Soak used fireworks in water
Be considerate – clean up used fireworks
Keep matches and lighters away from children