The Fourth of July holiday weekend is almost here, and if you’re like a lot of people, you may want to celebrate by heading to a fireworks show or by lighting off some explosives of your own. While taking in a spectacular professional show is certainly legal, are you allow to set off fireworks of your own in Minnesota? Let’s use today’s blog to look into fireworks laws in Minnesota in 2025.
Can I Shoot Fireworks In Minnesota?
Yes, you are legally allowed to purchase, possess and light fireworks in Minnesota. However, the ones you’re allowed to buy and light are probably not the ones you want to shoot off for a show of your own. Those bigger fireworks are illegal in Minnesota, so if you’re hoping to put on a show for your neighborhood, know that doing so could easily result in some trouble with the law.
Under Minnesota law, you are allowed to possess and light novelty non-aerial and non-explosive fireworks. That includes fireworks like sparklers, cones, fountains, snakes, party poppers and smoke devices. These rather mild devices are perfectly legal in Minnesota.
The more “fun” type of fireworks are not legal to purchase, possess or own in Minnesota. That includes any type of explosive or aerial firework that leaves the ground. Minnesota lawmakers have cited safety concerns as the main reason why these types of fireworks remain illegal for the average citizen. Permitted professional events are allowed to use these bigger fireworks, but if you launch them off in your neighborhood, expect a visit from police.
Penalties For Fireworks Possession In Minnesota
If you are caught lighting off illegal fireworks or you’re found to have them in your possession, you will likely face a misdemeanor charge, which carries with it the possibility of a fine up to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail. This is the penalty for possessing illegal aerial fireworks or less than 35 pounds of illegal explosive fireworks.
If you are caught in possession of over 35 pounds of illegal explosive fireworks, the potential penalties will increase. In this scenario, you’ll be hit with a gross misdemeanor charge, which is punishable by up to a year in jail and fines up to $3,000.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy ringing in the Fourth of July, but we recommend that you do so without purchasing or lighting off explosive or aerial fireworks in Minnesota. Not only could they send you to the emergency room or burn down your neighbor’s house, but they can also lead to criminal charges since explosive and aerial fireworks are still classified as illegal in Minnesota.
We’re here to help you in any way we can over the Fourth of July, and we intend to answer our phones day or night throughout the holiday weekend. If you run into trouble with fireworks or a traffic matter like a speeding ticket or a DWI, let Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm be your first call. For more information, or for help with a specific criminal matter, pick up the phone and contact our team today at (952) 224-2277.
