The Federal Hazardous Substances Act prohibits the sale of the most dangerous types of fireworks to consumers. These banned fireworks include large reloadable mortar shells, cherry bombs, aerial bombs, M-80 salutes and larger firecrackers containing more than two grains of powder. Also banned are mail-order kits designed to build these fireworks. In 1976, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission lowered the permissible charge in firecrackers to no more than 50 milligrams of powder. In addition, these amended regulations provide performance specifications for fireworks other than firecrackers intended for consumers use, including a requirement that fuses burn at least 3 seconds, but no longer than 9 seconds. All fireworks must carry a warning label describing necessary safety precautions and instructions for safe use. The federal Department of Transportation also regulates the transportation of fireworks.
Many states have laws regulating fireworks. Under such laws, possession of a permit is a often a prerequisite to manufacturing, selling or offering for sale, or shipping or causing to be shipped any fireworks or pyrotechnics for use before a audience into or within the state. Many states and local governments prohibit or limit consumer fireworks, formerly known as class C fireworks, which are common fireworks and firecrackers sold for consumer use. Consumer fireworks include shells and mortars, multiple tube devices, Roman Candles, rockets, sparklers, firecrackers with no more than 50 milligrams of powder and novelty items such as snakes, airplanes, ground spinners, helicopters, fountains, and party poppers. When purchasing fireworks online, the vendor often provides that the purchaser is responsible for complying with the laws of the state where the fireworks are delivered.
