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Oak Harbor Fire Department Fireworks Regulations (pdf file)  (HTML)

The WA State Fire Marshal has released a helpful fact sheet that clearly illustrates which fireworks are legal and which are not. Learn more at the WA State Patrol website: http://www.wa.gov/wsp/fireworks/default.htm

Are some fireworks illegal in Oak Harbor? Absolutely.

See the list of LEGAL fireworks at left; scroll down for a list of ILLEGAL fireworks & explosives.

What if I buy my fireworks in another city or on a Reservation? 

If you purchase illegal fireworks and bring them to Oak Harbor you risk being fined and having them confiscated because they are not legal here.

I want BIG, fancy fireworks! What do I do? 

Let someone else do the work- join your friends and neighbors at Windjammer Park for the Community Fireworks display. The show includes fireworks that you would not be able to purchase and discharge at home. You'll be amazed at what you see.

Don't forget your pets- The noises and commotion of the 4th of July can be very stressful on your animals. Keep them indoors and away from fireworks. Make sure they always have plenty of fresh water and never leave them in a hot car.

Fireworks aren't the only thing that's hot this summer- learn more about Heat Related Injuries.

ILLEGAL FIREWORKS (Under State Law)

• Firecrackers
• ALL bottle rockets
• Missile type rockets with fins
• Fireworks with sticks or fins

ILLEGAL EXPLOSIVES (Under State Law)

• M-80s
• M-100s
• Cherry Bombs
• Tennis balls
• Pipe bombs
• "Special Fireworks" (tampered, altered or homemade)
• Some Silver Salutes (amt. of pyrotechnic composition >50mg)
• All other larger and more dangerous explosives

Preparing for a safe Fourth of July

• Only use LEGAL fireworks. Many fireworks sold on the reservation are not legal to use (off of the reservation).
• Children should NEVER be allowed to light or hold fireworks.
• Keep pets indoors and teach kids to keep fireworks away from pets.
• Place all used fireworks in a bucket of water.
• Keep a water hose and/or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Use a hose or fire extinguisher to put out stray sparks.
• Be prepared to call 911 if necessary.
• Know how to perform basic first aid and keep a first aid kit nearby.
• To safely dispose of unused fireworks, soak them in water for 24 hours and then place in regular trash collection.

Lighting Fireworks Safely

• Designate ONE ADULT to light all fireworks.
• Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
• Light only one at a time.
• Move away from the lit fireworks quickly.
• Maintain a safe distance from discharged fireworks until they are completely finished.
• Never light fireworks indoors.
• Never light fireworks near things that could catch fire.
• Keep fireworks away from animals.
• Never throw fireworks.
• Never light fireworks in your hand.
• Don't use fireworks in a crowd.
• never place fireworks in glass containers or under metal cans.

Be Responsible

• When finished with your fireworks, CLEAN UP ALL DEBRIS.
• Be considerate of your neighbors.
• Be careful with duds - wait at least 5 minutes before having an adult approach them.
• Remember to place all duds and other fireworks into a bucket of water after they have been used, allow to soak 24 hours and then dispose.
• Fireworks may NOT be lit in public parks or on school property.

Learn More About State Fireworks Law:

Chapter 70.77 RCW: STATE FIREWORKS LAW

WAC 212-17-035

This page was updated on June 12, 2008  OHFD copyright 2005-2007.

• Sparklers
• Flitter Sparkler
• Cylindrical Fountain
• Cone Fountain
• Wheels
• Mine/Shell
• Roman Candles
• Illuminating Torch
• Ground Spinners
• Smoke Devices
• Combination Items

You must be 16 years old  to purchase fireworks

For more info on Oak Harbor's Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration and the Fireworks Extravaganza at Windjammer Park, visit the Greater Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.