Fireworks FAQs
We've gathered some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about fireworks in Shelton.
Fireworks FAQs
Fireworks were banned by the City in 2013. Residents had expressed concern about fireworks going off in neighborhoods before, during, and after the Fourth of July holiday. Besides the noise, the City has also received frequent complaints about fire danger, litter, traumatized military veterans and scared pets.
Only public firework displays that are permitted by the City of Shelton and conducted by a licensed pyrotechnician are permitted inside the City limits.
Generally, possession and discharge of fireworks is legal within the jurisdiction where they were lawfully purchased. Some jurisdictions may have date and time restrictions for discharge, as well as temporary bans and/or seasonal restrictions due to extreme fire hazards. Be sure to check with local jurisdictions on current fireworks regulations.
Even if you legally purchase fireworks somewhere else and bring them inside the City limits, you risk being fined and having them confiscated. Remember, many of the fireworks purchased on Tribal Land are only legal to discharge on Tribal Land.
The primary goal of the Shelton Police Department is to educate the community on current fireworks regulations. However, officers have the discretion to determine what course of action may be appropriate. The types and quantities of fireworks, manner of discharge and cooperation with the officer may affect their decision. The primary goal is to ensure the safety of Shelton residents. Repeated offenses may result in enforcement action. In all cases, fireworks are subject to seizure and destruction.
Call the Shelton Police Department's non-emergency line at 360-426-4441.
Protect your pets during the Fourth of July by keeping them secure indoors. Loud noises can cause pets stress, and may cause them to run away. Please ensure your pets have two forms of identification (ex: nametag, microchip, dog license) as this is extremely helpful when attempting to reunite you with your pet. If you're looking for your lost pet, please contact the Shelton Animal Shelter at 360-427-7503.
To report emergencies, always call 911. Fireworks emergencies can include: if there's a fire/smoke/flames, if someone was injured by fireworks, if someone's life is in danger, if someone is making homemade fireworks, etc.
If you'd like to report a noise disturbance, make a fireworks complaint, have fireworks you'd like to get rid of, or if someone is shooting off illegal fireworks (such as M80s or bottlerockets) - please call the non-emergency phone line at 360-426-4441.
While there are additional patrols for the Fourth of July, officers will prioritize firework related complaints among other calls for service.
If you'd like to report a noise disturbance, make a fireworks complaint, have fireworks you'd like to get rid of, or if someone is shooting off illegal fireworks (such as M80s or bottlerockets) - please call the non-emergency phone line at 360-426-4441.
While there are additional patrols for the Fourth of July, officers will prioritize firework related complaints among other calls for service.