Fireworks Sales Begins on June 29

The public will able to purchase July 4th fireworks starting on Saturday, June 29 and continuing until Thursday, July 4 at 8 p.m. according to the Maui County Department of Fire & Public Safety.

Fireworks permits will also be available for purchase and are necessary only to buy fire crackers. Permits are not needed to buy fireworks such as sparklers, snakes, and fountains that shoot no higher than 12 feet off the ground.

Each fireworks permit costs $25 and is payable by cash, check or money order to the County of Maui.

One permit allows for the purchase of up to 5,000 fire crackers. There is no limit as to how many permits an individual can purchase.

Permits can only by purchased by those 18 years or older. Proof of age is necessary at the time of purchase.

The public can purchase fireworks permits at the Fire Prevention Bureau at 313 Manea Place at the Waikapu Consolidated Baseyard. A limited amount of permits will also be available for purchase at the Phantom Fireworks tent, located in the front parking lot of the Queen Kaahumanu Center, located at 275 West Kaahumanu Avenue.

Please note that cash for permits will only be accepted at the Fire Prevention Bureau. (Also the Fire Prevention Bureau will not be open on July 4th as it is a county holiday.)

The fire department would also like to take this opportunity to remind the public about the following fireworks rules and regulations:

• Fireworks can only be legally set off from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the 4th of July

• Setting off fireworks outside designated times is punishable by law. Violations are subject to fines of up to $2,000.00 • Aerial fireworks are illegal and extremely dangerous. The import, transfer, sale, or use of aerial fireworks without a permit is a Class C Felony

General Prohibitions:

• It is unlawful to remove or extract pyrotechnic contents

• It is unlawful to throw any ignited fireworks from a moving vehicle

• It is unlawful to set off fireworks within 1000 feet of health care facilities and facilities for animals

• It is unlawful to set off fireworks by schools

• It is unlawful to set off fireworks on public roads, in County parks, at County facilities, cane fields, or places of worship

• It is unlawful for any person without a permit to set off, ignite, discharge or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks within 500 feet from any hotel

• It is unlawful for any person to offer for sale, sell or give any fireworks to minors, and for any minors to possess, purchase, or set off, ignite or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks, except that the parents or guardians may allow the minor to use fireworks while under the immediate supervision and control of an adult.

Safety Tips Regarding Fireworks Use:

• Fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burns and eye injuries.

• Young children and fireworks do not mix. Never give fireworks, even sparklers to young children. Sparklers burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Older children should only use fireworks under the direct supervision of an adult.

• Always read and follow all warnings and instructions listed by the manufacturer for the safe use and handling of fireworks.

• Make sure you have a clear, flat area to use the fireworks; away from structures, dry grass or brush, or other readily ignitable materials.

• Have a water hose or bucket of water readily available in case of a fire.

Public Aerial Fireworks Display Locations:

• Lahaina 4th of July Fireworks Offshore barge along Front Street, Lahaina, Maui July 4, 2019 – begins approximately at 8:00 p.m.

• 26th Annual Lanai Pineapple Festival Dole Park, Awalua Ave., Lanai, July 6, 2019 – begins approximately at 8:30 p.m.

Fire department officials stress that “the use of fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July is a privilege that Maui residents continue to enjoy. Unfortunately, this activity increases our community’s risk of fire and fire-related injuries.

Please remember to do the following: supervise children using fireworks, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety tips provided, use common sense, and watch out for each other’s safety. Let’s all have a safe and enjoyable July 4th celebration!

“The best way to stay safe is to not use fireworks in the first place … Leave fireworks to the professionals!”

For additional information on fireworks permits, contact the Maui Fire Department’s, Fire Prevention Bureau at (808) 8764690 or refer to the Hawaii Revised Statutes 132D.