VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (June 29, 2022) — July Fourth means family picnics, outdoor fun, and night skies full of fireworks, but most residents and visitors are unaware of the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, the Code of Virginia, and the Virginia Beach City Code Section 12-43.2, that strictly prohibits fireworks and pyrotechnics within the city limits unless properly permitted . This also includes sparklers and pinwheels, which burn at 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. Illegal fireworks are a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to one-year in jail and or a $2,500.00 fine.
Every year adults and children are seriously injured, and fires ignited by people setting off illegal fireworks across the city. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 19,500 fires, started by fireworks, were reported to local fire departments in the US during 2018. These fires caused five civilian deaths, 46 civilian injuries, and $105 million in direct property damage.
Not only do fireworks cause physical damage, but they also cause mental anxiety and stress to victims of PTSD such as our service men and women, children, those affected by gun violence and even pets. Please consider others over yourself.
Leave it to the pros! Citizens are encouraged to attend one of the two FREE fireworks shows:
Monday, July 4, 6 to 10 p.m.
Mount Trashmore Park - 310 Edwin Drive
Admission is free; limited onsite parking is $10.
Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
STARS & STRIPES CELEBRATION – Oceanfront
Monday, July 4, 7 to 11 p.m.
Scheduled live entertainment at 17th, 24th and 31st street parks offer something for everyone. All performances are FREE.
Fireworks launch at 9:30 p.m. at 24th Street and the Boardwalk.
Note: The following organizations have applied for a Fireworks and Pyrotechnics permit. They have been approved and granted a permit for these events:
To report the use of illegal fireworks, contact VB311 Citizen Services by dialing 311 or visit www.VBgov.com for online assistance.
To report emergencies, including the presence of fire or flames, continue to call 911.
For information on fireworks, call the Fire Marshal's Office at (757) 385-4228.