AUSTIN, Texas — Red, white and blue colors will soon fill Central Texas skies as the Fourth of July is almost underway.
Before lighting fireworks on personal property, it's important to know whether you are legally permitted. Each county has different rules and regulations, and being aware of these can make all the difference.
Travis County
Fireworks are typically permitted in unincorporated portions of Travis County located away from city limits.
However, this does not include public roads, parks, greenbelts, parks and more, where pyrotechnics are prohibited.
City of Austin
As for Austin itself, the use or sale of fireworks is illegal within city zones, but smaller items are allowed to be used.
These include Black Snake and Glow Worm fireworks, smoke devices, sparklers and trick noisemakers, such as party poppers, snappers and more.
In order to legally organize a fireworks show, those interested must submit a $200 permit fee and application form at least 21 days before an event. It's also required to receive a pyrotechnic operator license, certificate of insurance, public display permit and more. Visit here for the full list of requirements.
Those who violate the ruling could be fined up to $2,000, according to the Austin Fire Department.
Additionally, celebratory gunfire is also banned in the Texas capital, and violators could end up with a 10-year prison sentence.
Williamson County
In Williamson County, it's considered an offense to set off fireworks in parks, trails, facilities or preserves without a permit.
Georgetown
If you're thinking about lighting off fireworks in Georgetown, you might want to reconsider.
According to the city's Code of Ordinances, it's deemed unlawful to sell and/or use fireworks within corporate limits or within 5,000 outside the city itself. Those who wish to use pyrotechnics must first receive a special permit, and anyone who disobeys this order remains liable.
Hutto
For those living in Hutto, only individuals with special permits are allowed to store, sell or ignite fireworks on their properties.
It's also unlawful for parents and/or adults to allow minor children access to fireworks. Additionally, fireworks are prohibited altogether during drought conditions, per the city Code of Ordinances.
First time offenders could face a fine up to $500, with penalties increasing each time.
Liberty Hill
Selling and using fireworks in Liberty Hill could also result in a fine of up to $500 unless you have a special permit from Williamson County ESD No. 4.
As a general rule, individuals cannot sell, use or manufacture fireworks anywhere in city limits. It's also considered an offense to help minors obtain or light off these explosives.
Breaking these restrictions could also result in a misdemeanor, as part of the Liberty Hill Code of Ordinances.
Taylor
In Taylor, Texas, fireworks cannot be stored or used within 5,000 feet outside the city or within city limits, "except if necessary for the performance of a public exhibition to be held" where a permit is previously obtained.
Such permits must be acquired from the city council, and a temporary license must also be provided by the Taylor fire chief upon examination.
Those who violate these rules could face a fine of up to $500 and a misdemeanor conviction.
Pflugerville
For approximately 30 years, Pflugerville has issued a "zero tolerance" fireworks policy, making it illegal to store, sell or ignite these pyrotechnics anywhere in city limits. This also holds true for areas 5,000 feet outside of the city.
Using fireworks in any way is illegal and considered a "public nuisance," and the fire marshal is permitted to shut down any unauthorized display.
Round Rock
Round Rock does not allow the sale or use of fireworks without a permit for display.
If you're looking to obtain a permit, you must provide proof of financial responsibility and pay a site inspection fee during the application process.
Lighting or obtaining fireworks without proper permits could result in their removal.
Cedar Park
Similar to most other Central Texas municipalities, Cedar Park also bans fireworks within city limits and in any incorporated areas within 5,000 feet.
Fireworks shows are only permitted to be organized by professional, licensed individuals or organizations. Anyone else could receive a fine of up to $2,000.
While fireworks are not permitted, Cedar Park residents can still use sparklers, snaps and other similar items.
Leander
In Leander, the sale, use and manufacturing of fireworks is considered a "public nuisance" anywhere in the city.
It is not permitted to help minors obtain fireworks, and anyone who breaks these rules could face a fine of up to $500 on the first offense.
However, it's possible to obtain a special permit from the city secretary and council.
Jarrell
Those in Jarrell could be fined up to $500 for lighting, selling or using fireworks in the city area. The city considers it a "public nuisance" to use fireworks, and it's prohibited to help those under 18 obtain these objects.
If you're looking to legally set off fireworks, it's possible to receive a written permit from the secretary and city council.
Hays County
As of 2023, Hays County does not permit fireworks in city limits or whenever there is a burn ban put in place.
Currently, Hays County is not under a burn ban, but you can keep up with the latest here.
Fourth of July safety tips
This week, the Austin Fire Department (AFD) also shared some safety tips to consider this Fourth of July.
If you're looking to sizzle up some hamburgers or hotdogs, keep your grill 10 feet or more away from your home. It's also recommended to keep a spray bottle nearby to use when needed.
As fireworks shows begin, pet owners might consider ways to keep their animals from getting too anxious. Try turning on the television for background noise, or even close the curtains to help bright lights and loud noises.