Before you start lighting off fireworks this 4th of July you need to know the rules!
WHEN CAN I SHOOT OFF FIREWORKS IN BIRCH BAY?
You can shoot off consumer fireworks
- • July 3rd: 6:00 PM until 11:00 PM
• July 4th: 6:00 PM until 12:00 midnight
• July 5th: 6:00 PM until 11:00 PM
WHERE CAN I SHOOT OFF FIREWORKS IN BIRCH BAY?
- Private property that is in unincorporated Whatcom County
You may not shoot off fireworks in Birch Bay State Park.
WHAT TYPES OF FIREWORKS CAN I USE?
*(From the Whatcom County Planning and Development Services Website)
Fireworks purchased at stands in unincorporated Whatcom County are inspected and approved by the Fire Marshal’s Office and are state licensed. If you purchased fireworks from a reservation stand, those items must remain on the reservation. The following items are illegal to possess or use off-reservation:
• Fire Crackers
• Bottle Rockets
• Missile type rockets with fins
• Fireworks with sticks or fins
• Mortar shells larger than 1 ¾” in diameter
Additionally explosive devices such as M-80’s, M-100’s, Tennis ball bombs, and pipe bombs are illegal everywhere and are considered an explosive device. Possession or use of these items can result in criminal charges.
How about sky lanterns? Sky lanterns are NOT a firework, but are regulated by the State and County fire code. Sky lanterns are only allowed to be lit as long as they are tethered (i.e. kite string, twine, etc.) and controlled at all times. Any fire started by a sky lantern may be charged criminally.
Any possession or use of illegal fireworks can result in both civil and criminal penalties. Any modification of a firework is considered an improvised explosive device and is a felony. Any fire started from fireworks or explosives is Reckless Burning which can result in civil and criminal penalties.
Visit the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office website for more information on fireworks (http://www.whatcomcounty.us/669/Fireworks), as well as outdoor burning (http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us/690/Outdoor-Burning).