07/04/2024
Good evening and happy 4th of July! Just a quick reminder of the firework laws in PA and Manchester Township.
As always please be considerate to your neighbors when choosing to ignite fireworks. Some of your neighbors are elderly, have small children and animals that are frighten by loud noises. 
According to PA law fireworks can not be set off within 150 feet (50 yards, half a football field) from any structure or vehicle.
The raintree community does not have an area large enough to set off fireworks. Our homes are not separated by 150 feet. So, it is illegal to set off fireworks in our neighborhood, this includes the street, backyards and common areas around the neighborhood.
If you would choose to set off fireworks or sparkling devices please be responsible and respectful. Please clean up all remnants when finished.
IF any home, vehicle, property or any other structures are damaged from someone setting off fireworks, it will be the responsibility of those igniting said fireworks to fix or replace any damages.
What are the firework restrictions in Pennsylvania?
The following restrictions are in place regarding consumer fireworks in Pennsylvania.
They cannot be ignited or discharged on either public or private property without permission of the property owner.
It cannot be directed at another person, building, or vehicle.
They cannot be discharged or ignited 150 feet from a building or vehicle regardless if either is owned by the user of the consumer fireworks.
Fireworks cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
What is the penalty for violating a state fireworks law?
The Pennsylvania Code states the following penalties for violating a certain fireworks law:
If one is using consumer fireworks in violation of the laws commits a summary offense and will be punishable by a fine of not more than $500. If an offense is committed within three years of a prior conviction will be punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000.
Manchester Township Ordinance:
§ 7-1005 Consumer Fireworks.
[Ord. No. 2021-09, 12/14/2021]
1.
Conditions. A person who is at least 18 years of age and meets the requirements of the Fireworks Law[1] may purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks.
[1]
Editor's Note: See 72 P.S. § 9401 et seq.
2.
Prohibition.
A.
Burn Ban. Consumer fireworks shall not be discharged during any period of time in which a burn ban is declared within the Township.
B.
Act 43 of 2017 - "Fireworks Law." Consumer fireworks or sparkling devices must not be operated:
(1)
On public or private property without the express consent of the property owner.
(2)
Within or thrown from a motor vehicle or occupied structure.
(3)
Out of a motor vehicle or occupied structure, at a motor vehicle or occupied structure, or at another person.
(4)
While the person is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other controlled substance.
(5)
Within 150 feet of an occupied structure.
3.
Hours of Discharge. Any use of consumer fireworks shall occur between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
4.
Duration of Discharge. A person must not discharge consumer fireworks from any property for more than: 1) one hour, measured on a cumulative basis, in any given twenty-four-hour period; and 2) three hours, measured on a cumulative basis, in any given ten-day period.
We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during the 4th of July festivities and hope everyone has a happy 4th of July!
Most importantly have fun and Stay safe!
