The following message is from the Teaneck Police Department:

As we enter the summer season, which is typically a time of year for increased firework usage, we would like to emphasize the fact that in the state of New Jersey all fireworks are indeed illegal. The fireworks laws in this state, N.J.S.A. 21:2-1 et seq. and N.J.S.A. 21-3-1 et seq. are so prohibitive that only paper or plastic caps for use in toy guns are legal. According to these laws, offering for sale, or sale of fireworks, is a crime of the fourth degree, with a maximum fine of $7,500 and/or a jail sentence of up to 18 months. Anyone who possesses or discharges fireworks is guilty of a petty disorderly offense and subject to a maximum fine of $500 and/or a jail sentence of up to 30 days.

These banned fireworks include novelty items, such as sparklers, cigarette loads, trick matches, trick noise makers, smoke grenades, toy propellants, snaps & pops, and champagne poppers, as well as the traditionally thought of firecrackers, roman candles, rockets and so on.  The fireworks laws will be enforced by this department as well as by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

More important than the legal issues however are the safety concerns. Last year, twelve people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries from the use of fireworks. This number, which does not even take into account others who may have been treated by their own physicians or at hospitals out of state, includes injuries such as burns, eye injuries, lacerations and amputations caused by the fireworks.

We want to see everyone have a fun and safe summer, so please heed these safety and legal warnings associated with the sale, possession, and use of fireworks. Thank you and stay safe.