OK, you live in a state that only allows fireworks with a permit (closed) or the types of fireworks you want for your backyard family display will require a permit (semi-limited). How to get one?
First and foremost, know who to ask and what is required to obtain one. In some states you will probably need to be licensed before you can obtain a permit, and this is not only can be expensive, but difficult at best.
Make sure you have all the information you will need before you call up and ask. Take that trip to the library and get the actual state statutes for fireworks for the state you want to have your display in. Also, check with the clerk in your municipality for any ordinances about fireworks, open fires and noise.
Outdoor fires? Noise? Yes, because these two areas can often be used as reasons to deny a permit in a particular municipality, so you want to know if they exist and if so, what the criteria are for them.
You may also wish to review which fire codes are in place in your area. Although it applies for larger, traditional display fireworks, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1123 Code for the Display of Fireworks may still be applied in your area for CPSC Consumer Fireworks since some states treat them all the same. A copy might be in your library as part of the National Fire Codes or you can purchase it directly from the NFPA.
Another great source for basic information is the Pyrotechnic Guild International (PGI) Study Guide for Display Operator Training Program which is available for only $5.00. The PGI Safety Guidelines also provide the elements of safe fireworks use too. Both are geared mostly for larger display fireworks, but the basic principles are super for a backyard display. If you can attend a PGI Convention, take the shooter safety program, as it is the best training you can get.
Some things you should know before you ask for a permit.
Know exactly which municipality and fire
district the shoot site is in! One may have a mailing address that is not actually in that
municipality and it may also be in a different fire district. (Where the taxes are paid or
one registers to vote is a good place to start when in doubt.)
Who owns the land and whether you have
permission from the owner (This is a must).
Whether you have asked any neighbors close by if
they object (inviting them over really helps).
What the lay of the land is, especially where
your audience, any animals, buildings or areas with readily combustible materials like dry
grass or vegetation will be located.
What types of fireworks and in what quantities
they will be used (Not item by item, but a general listing).
What kind of equipment you'll have, especially,
fire protection equipment such as water pails, fire extinguishers, shovels, rakes, etc.
Who will set them up and light them and what
kind of experience they have.
When you plan to do the display with a date and
time or time range. Don't forget to ask for a rain date(s) in case you have to postpone.
Remember! Knowledge is power and the more you know, the greater your ability to satisfy the powers that be to obtain your permit and not get hassled about your display.
Remember too, if you say you will do things a certain way, do them that way so you maintain credibility. You can almost be sure you will be watched and if there are any things not done as you said they would be or problems, you will have less likelihood of obtaining a permit for next year.
Another tip is attitude. You want to be polite and ask first and no matter how rude or condescending you are treated, keep your cool. You may have all the facts, be right as can be, but bump into an official who simply doesn't like to be shown how ignorant they are, who may not wish to face the fact he or she can issue a permit, be prejudiced against fireworks, or is simply one of those kind of people.
If you are refused, keep after them politely but firmly. Make sure you make requests in writing with information, plans, references and other information so when you go over their heads or bring their inaction or bad attitude up to their superiors or your representatives, you have something to help you with your cause. Push them to put their refusal in writing as well so they are forced to cite a reason.
Be aware the easiest way for them to say no is to insist you get a license or liability insurance certificate. Few states have a license and a federal license isn't required to purchase or use CPSC Consumer Fireworks. If they require liability insurance for your backyard display, it isn't that expensive but finding it not always easy.
Most homeowners policies don't say anything specific about fireworks, just restrict coverage to legal activities or some other such covenant, so this is a real gray area. Ask the fireworks outlet you buy them from if they have access to coverage if you need it. Some now have programs for backyard displays because they are gaining in popularity and enough people want to do everything right.
Whatever you do, keep working on it by asking and then answering whatever reasons they come up to say no with reason, facts, figures and information. If they have a valid reason for saying no, find an alternative site, or change the types of fireworks or address the risks they are concerned about. Sometimes it is easier to start small and work your way up to bigger or more items so you can demonstrate ability and credibility.
The other option is to go ahead without a permit ..... a tactic not recommended. Although many people do so, there is always a risk of being pinched if you do. Fines can be up to $500 or more and they will seize all the fireworks. Worse, they'll often try to shame you or make an example of you in the local media and make you seem like some sort of mad bomber type just for lighting a few firecrackers and Roman candles!
Whatever you do, think ahead, plan, use common sense, take your time, and expect the unexpected.
© July 1998, pyro-pages.com, inc. ™
, La Crosse, WI USA. All rights reserved worldwide.Revised July 17, 1998