Public Fireworks Display Permit

Anyone who uses fireworks for a professional public or private show must have a public fireworks display permit that must be filed at least 10 business days before the display is to be held. Applications must be submitted by one of the Maryland certified fireworks companies. Display fireworks are large fireworks designed to produce visible or audible effects.

Documentation required for a permit

• Proof of Insurance to include: Nondeductible form, the State of Maryland must be named as an additional insured, must include a thirty day cancellation clause.
• Authority Having Jurisdiction’s (AHJ) completed site inspection form (original signature required)
• Signature from the responding fire department indicating knowledge of the proposed fireworks display date
• Letter from the applicant/sponsor acknowledging their responsibility for perimeter security on land and water and how this is to be accomplished.
• Copy of driver’s license, front and back, for the person transporting the fireworks to the display site.
• Copy of the approved product transportation route.
• Site plan for the proposed display area.
• If fireworks fallout will affect other properties, a letter of permission from the property owner or representative.
• Detailed site operation schedule.

Failure to provide the required documentation will result in denial of application.

Application submission

• Applications can be submitted by:
  • U.S. Mail: Office of the State Fire Marshal, P.O. Box 436 Linthicum, MD 21090
  • In person: 1201 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, Maryland 21208
  • Email:  [email protected]
• Pay the required fee of  $50.00 online

Applications submitted less than 10 days prior to the proposed fireworks display date shall require an additional $50.00 late processing fee. 

Local government restrictions

While the state issues the primary permit, local governments may require additional approvals or have specific bans: 

• Montgomery County: Requires a separate local Fire Prevention and Code Compliance General Permit.
• Anne Arundel County: Requires site inspections scheduled directly with the Anne Arundel County Fire Marshal.
• Banned Areas: Public displays are the only legal way to use fireworks in jurisdictions like Baltimore City and Montgomery County, where all consumer fireworks are illegal. 

Application processing time

The review processing time is about 10-30 days for final approval once the application is submitted to the OSFM. Final approval and permit issuance require prior application submission to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). This process may take up to 30 days.

Please allow 10-30 days for final approval once the application is submitted to the OSFM.

Maryland licensed firework companies​