Annual Fireworks Task Force Initiative Begins

Published on June 30, 2024

Pittsburgh, PA – In an effort to preserve life and protect property, the Department of Public Safety is announcing the start of its annual Fireworks Task Force ahead of Independence Day.

This enforcement initiative, conducted by members from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, will run nightly from Sunday, June 30 until Friday, July 5, 2024 to respond to fireworks-related calls and complaints throughout the city.

Since October 2017, consumer grade pyrotechnics have been legal for purchase and use in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. However, there are a number of rules and regulations concerning their use within the City of Pittsburgh:

Fireworks cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner

Fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet of a building or vehicle, regardless of whether the building or vehicle is owned by the user
Fireworks are prohibited in all City of Pittsburgh parks, baseball diamonds, or playing fields
Fireworks cannot be discharged in the direction of another person, or used while the operator is under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances

Misuse and/or the illegal use of fireworks can result in warnings, citations, arrests, or confiscation of fireworks.

"The goal of the Fireworks Task Force is to allow for the safe usage of legally-purchased pyrotechnics, as long as they are used in compliance with the laws established by the Commonwealth and the laws and ordinances of the City of Pittsburgh. The restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors as we celebrate this Fourth of July," said Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt.

Those who utilize and/or discharge fireworks in a manner that results in injury or property damage will be held responsible and they, or their insurance providers, may be liable for damages.

Public Safety also urges residents to remember the welfare of their pets in the days leading up to - and including - Independence Day. Some pets are extremely sensitive to the loud noises and flashing lights associated with fireworks displays, prompting them to run away or hide.

In the event of a lost or found pet, please contact Animal Care and Control at (412) 255-2036. For urgent situations after office hours, call (412) 255-2935.

The Department of Public Safety wishes everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday!

Cara Cruz
Public Information Officer
Public Safety
cara.cruz@pittsburghpa.gov