Fireworks Laws

It varies depending on where you are in the state.
In fact, in some cases the rules change within a city block.

For many people, picking-up a batch of fireworks is synonymous with getting ready to celebrate independence, within the law.

The Griffeys who live in Maumelle don't exactly know the ordinance that permits their annual pyrotechnic show, but they just know, or at least hope, it's legal.

"We like the little smoke bombs and we do those in the front yard," says Patty Griffey.

"As far as I know you can shoot fireworks from midnight to...um?" wonders Patty Griffey.

Actually in Maumelle the law says people can shot fireworks only on the 4th of July and New Years Eve from 10:30 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. those nights. The police department says when the clock hits 10:31 p.m., it's crack down time.

"We try to stay within the law," says Griffey.

However, the law varies within miles or sometimes feet.

In Little Rock and North Little Rock it's illegal to manufacture, possess or let off fireworks.

"I didn't even know that was a law. I guess I'll just head the other way when I go home," says Chris Moore while shopping for Fireworks in Maumelle.

In Saline County there's another set of rules. People in Bryant can legally light fireworks July 3rd, 4th, and 5th between noon and 10 p.m.

However, they have to be careful where they're sparks land, because in some parts of the city, literally just a block away they're illegal in Benton.

Police say people caught not following the law could have their fireworks taken, be fined, or be arrested, losing the freedom they're celebrating.

The U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission says in 2005, fireworks were involved in an estimated 10, 800 injuries, 45 percent of those being kids.