Washington-Area Fireworks Rules

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Sparklers measuring 20 inches or less, torches, box fire, fountains, cones, dip sticks, non-poisonous snakes, paper novelty items, colored lights and paper caps are allowed.

Any fireworks that move, explode, emit a flame greater than 12 inches, have a side-mounted fuse or fuse inserted along the product's surface, or contain highly oxidizing agents such as mercury or arsenic that the fire marshal considers to be dangerous to the safety of any person or property are not permitted.

Violations can lead to fines of up to $1,000 and/or arrest for further prosecution.

MARYLAND

Anne Arundel County

Only novelty items and ground-based sparkling devices are permitted. There is a $250 fine for violations.

Calvert County

Only novelty items and ground-based sparkling devices are permitted. There is a $250 fine for violations.

Charles County

Only novelty items and ground-based sparkling devices are permitted. There is a $250 fine for violations.

Frederick County

Only novelty items and ground-based sparkling devices are permitted. There is a $250 fine for violations.

Howard County

Only novelty items are allowed. There is a $250 fine for violations.

Montgomery County

Fireworks are not permitted. Fines may run as high as $750.

Prince George's County

Fireworks are not permitted.

St. Mary's County

Only novelty items and ground-based sparkling devices are permitted. There is a $250 fine for violations.

VIRGINIA

Alexandria

No fireworks are permitted. Violations can lead to up to $2,500 in fines and/or up to 12 months in prison.

Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William and Stafford counties, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park

Sparklers, fountains, Pharaoh's serpents, caps for pistols and pinwheels (commonly known as whirligigs), spinning jennies, or other similar fireworks approved by the fire marshal are permissible.

Any fireworks that explode, rise into the air, travel laterally or fire projectiles into the air are not allowed.

Violations can lead to fines of up to $2,500 and or 12 months in prison.

-- Compiled by Leah Carliner for washingtonpost.com