The use and possession of fireworks in Massachusetts without proper licensure and permits violate State Law, Federal Law, State Fire code, and City of Brockton Ordinances.
Mass General Law makes it illegal for private citizens to use, possess, or sell fireworks in this state.
- It is illegal to use, possess, sell, or offer to sell fireworks in Massachusetts without the required licensure, certification, and permits issued by the State Fire Marshall and local fire department. MGL ch. 148 sec. 39
- The law applies to fireworks that were purchased lawfully in another state.
- The law prohibits any article designed to produce a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation.
- Penalty: fines up to $1,000, imprisonment up to one year, or both.
- The statue states the officer shall seize any fireworks.
- This law is effective – The per capita rate of fireworks injuries in Massachusetts is about 1/5 the national rate.
Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code
- The possession and use of consumer fireworks is prohibited in the Commonwealth… MA NFPA 1, 65.10
Federal Law makes it illegal to transport fireworks into this state.
- S. Code: Title 18 – Crimes and Criminal Procedure sec 836 makes it a federal crime to transport or deliver fireworks into any state with laws specifically prohibiting or regulating the use of fireworks.
There are no permitted fireworks displays in the City of Brockton for the 2026 July 4th weekend.
- Fireworks displays will be investigated by the Fire Investigation Units of the Brockton Fire Dept., Brockton Police Dept., and Massachusetts State Police Troopers assigned to the Fire Marshall’s Office.