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FIREWORKS IN RYE

The information below is to be used only as a guide. Check with the Fireworks Section of the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal's Office for the most up to date information, as well as a list of individual community restrictions.

The Town of Rye has no local ordinances regulating fireworks, however all state laws still apply. Only permissible fireworks as defined by RSA 160-C:1 are permitted to be displayed in New Hampshire (only on private property).

Unregulated Novelty Fireworks

Examples include sparklers, party poppers, snappers and snakes. Although these items may be used by those under 21 years of age, adult supervision is still recommended. These novelty fireworks are the only class of fireworks permitted on public property without a permit.

RSA 160-C:1 "Permissible fireworks'' means the items on the permissible fireworks list, in addition to the fireworks listed below:

1. Cone fountain, meaning a cardboard or heavy paper cone which contains up to 50 grams of pyrotechnic composition, and which produces the same effect as a cylindrical fountain. Any fountain that is designed to be hand held shall not be considered permissible.
2. Cylindrical fountain, meaning cylindrical tube not exceeding 3/4 inch in inside diameter and containing up to 75 grams of pyrotechnic composition, which produces a shower of color and sparks upon ignition, and sometimes a whistling effect. Cylindrical fountains may contain a spike to be inserted in the ground (spike fountain), or a wooden or plastic base to be placed on the ground (base fountain). Any fountain that is designed to be hand held shall not be considered permissible.
3. Ground spinner, meaning a small spinning device containing up to 20 grams of pyrotechnic composition per driver with a maximum of 3 drivers, which is similar to wheels in design and effect when placed on the ground and ignited, and which produces a shower of sparks and color when spinning. Any ground spinner that is designed to lift off the ground or shoot upward shall not be considered permissible.
4. Wheel, meaning a pyrotechnic device that:
   (1) Is attached to a post or tree by means of a nail or string;
   (2) Contains up to 6 driver units (tubes not exceeding 1/2 inch in inside diameter) containing up to 60 grams of pyrotechnic composition per driver unit; and
   (3) Revolves, upon ignition, producing a shower of color and sparks and sometimes a whistling effect.

RSA 160-C:11 Possession and Display of Permissible Fireworks

• Any person 21 years of age or older may possess permissible fireworks.
• Any person 21 years of age or older may display permissible fireworks on private property with the written consent of the owner, or in the owner's presence.
  

"Non-Permissible Fireworks" - Examples include any type of Firecracker, Bottle Rocket, Missile, Sky Rocket, Reloadable Aerial Shells, Hand Held Fountains, Salutes and any device that produces solely smoke.

Fireworks Safety Tips

1. Follow your local and state laws regarding the display and possession of fireworks. Make certain to read and follow all directions, caution labels and warnings labels on each individual firework device.
2. Never allow children to handle, play with and/or light any type of fireworks.
3. Do not consume alcohol while handling fireworks.
4. Always display fireworks in a clear, open area free of overhead objects. Always provide for a safe distance between buildings and any viewing audience.
5. Always light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface to insure stability of the device.
6. Never extend any part of your body over the top of any device.
7. Always ignite one device at a time.
8. Never attempt to re-ignite, alter, or fix any fireworks device which has failed to fire.
9. Always have a form of fire suppression nearby. (fire extinguisher, hose, or bucket of water)
10. Be cautious of igniting aerial devices during high wind conditions.
11. Never aim, point, throw, or shoot fireworks at another person.
12. Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place and dispose of properly.

Check the State Fire Marshal's website for more information.