When can you start shooting fireworks in Wichita? See laws and ordinances ahead of July 4

Starting this week, Wichita residents can get an early start celebrating the Fourth of July.

On Thursday, people will be able to use some forms of fireworks, the signature act that recognizes the national holiday.

But before you make your fireworks plans this season, it’s important to refresh yourself on city ordinances regarding the use of fireworks in city limits.

People can shoot off non-aerial fireworks in Wichita starting June 27 but must wait for aerial fireworks until July 3. Non-aerial fireworks include fountains, sparklers, smoke balls, and any fireworks that stay on the ground.

Previously, aerial fireworks were allowed to be shot off in a longer window -- from July 1 through July 5. The city council approved the change this May, which also allows aerial fireworks to be sold and purchased in city limits.

Fireworks can not be ignited after July 5 and can only be shot off from 10 a.m. to Midnight on the permitted days.

It’s also illegal in Wichita to fire a firework from a bicycle, fire a firework within 50 feet of a firework stand, purchase and fire non-consumer grade fireworks and engage in firework manufacturing without a permit.

It is illegal to buy or sell fireworks in any unincorporated area of Sedgwick County, the county’s website says.

What are the penalties for violating fireworks ordinances?

Violating the city’s firework ordinances could cost you.

Anyone who violates Wichita’s ordinances for the first time will face a $1,000 fine or 50 hours of community service. Second-time violations, however, will see a $1,500 fine, and third-time violations will see a fine of $2,000, according to the city’s website.

If juveniles break fireworks ordinances, their parents could be fined for that violation.

The Wichita Police Department and the Wichita Fire Department will patrol the streets from June 17 to July 6 to enforce fireworks ordinances.

Starting on Sunday and lasting through July 5, you can report any fireworks-related complaints by calling 316-290-1011.

How to stay safe while using fireworks in Kansas

Here are some tips to stay safe this Fourth of July, according to Wichita’s city website:

• Young children should not handle fireworks
• Older children should only handle fireworks with close adult supervision
• Don’t handle fireworks when intoxicated
• Don’t hold lit fireworks in hands
• Don’t light fireworks indoors
• Soak used and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before throwing them away
• Keep water nearby when handling fireworks in case of a fire

This story was originally published June 25, 2024 at 3:42 PM.

Lindsay Smith

The Wichita Eagle

Lindsay Smith is a suburban news reporter for the Wichita Eagle, covering the communities of Andover, Bel Aire, Derby, Haysville and Kechi. She has been on The Eagle staff since 2022 and was the service journalism reporter for three years. She has a degree in communications with an emphasis in journalism from Wichita State, where she was editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, The Sunflower, for two years. You can reach her via email at lsmith@wichitaeagle.com.