FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2023
CFD Firework Safety Public Service Announcement
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - The Charlottesville Fire Department would like to remind the community that while Virginia permissible fireworks may be legal and enjoyed in surrounding counties, ALL fireworks are illegal in the City of Charlottesville.
Fireworks and fireworks displays can be fun and enjoyable for all ages; they can also be dangerous and destructive. If you plan to launch fireworks outside of the City, please remember to use proper precaution. Be sure to properly extinguish the fireworks after use, preferably submerging them in water before disposal. Also, be mindful of your neighbors; fireworks could have a detrimental effect on the health and wellbeing of those who suffer from PTSD and other disorders.
If you wish to host a large firework display in the City, you can do so by obtaining a permit. The fire chief may, upon due application, issue a permit to a properly qualified person, granting them use of a public park or open space for pyrotechnic display. Such permits shall impose such restrictions as, in the opinion of the fire chief, may be necessary to properly safeguard life and property in each case.
Although fireworks can be a joyous display of celebration, the responsibility of launching them should not be taken lightly. The misuse of fireworks resulting in death, injury, or property loss shall incur civil or criminal liability.
Our goal at the Charlottesville Fire Department is to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July, so please help us protect you and your loved ones!
Media Contact
Kyle Ervin
Public Safety Information Officer
City of Charlottesville
(434) 326-3043