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Maryland Fireworks Buying Age (2026)
Info: Maryland sets no statewide minimum age in statute for buying the permitted sparklers/novelties, which are sold seasonally at retail stands and stores.
Maryland sets no statewide minimum age in statute for buying the permitted sparklers/novelties, which are sold seasonally at retail stands and stores. Aerials bought legally out of state remain illegal to possess in Maryland.
Official source: mdsp.maryland.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Fireworks Buying Age in states bordering Maryland
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- DelawareInfo
In Delaware you must be 18 to buy sparklers and ground items, and they are sold only during the seasonal windows. Aerials bought legally in nearby Pennsylvania remain illegal to possess or use in Delaware.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: statefiremarshal.delaware.gov · Full Delaware rule →
The District of Columbia sets no district-wide minimum age for buying permitted novelties, though retail and wholesale dealers themselves must be 21 or older. Only seasonal dealers permitted by FEMS may sell them. Maryland and Virginia sell items that are illegal in the District, so buying across the line still leaves them illegal to use here.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: fems.dc.gov · Full District of Columbia rule →
- PennsylvaniaInfo
In Pennsylvania you must be 18 to buy or use fireworks. Consumer fireworks must be bought from a stand-alone permanent structure licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and online or mail-order purchases must be delivered to a licensed facility.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania rule →
- VirginiaInfo
Virginia sets no statewide minimum purchase age in its state code; localities may impose their own age and permit conditions. Neighboring states sell aerials that are illegal in Virginia, so buying across the line still leaves them unlawful to use here.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →
- West VirginiaInfo
In West Virginia you must be 18 and have a valid ID to buy consumer fireworks. Retailers certified by the State Fire Marshal sell them.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: code.wvlegislature.gov · Full West Virginia rule →
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