Fireworks

We want Chesapeake residents to stay safe! In accordance with the local amendments to the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, it is illegal to possess, manufacture, store, sell, handle or use fireworks in Chesapeake. We ask that you leave the pyrotechnics to the experts!

Chapter 56 of the local amendments to the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code specifically addresses the use of explosives and fireworks. Here is the code:

5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited.

Exceptions:

Storage and handling of fireworks as permitted in Section 5604.
Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as permitted in Section 5605.
The use of fireworks for display as permitted in Section 5608.

5601.2.4 Financial responsibility. Before a permit is issued, as required by Section 5601.2, the applicant shall file with the jurisdiction a corporate surety bond in the principal sum of $1,000,000 or a public liability insurance policy for the same amount, for the purpose of the payment of all damages to persons or property which arise from, or are caused by, the conduct of any act authorized by the permit upon which any judicial judgment results. The legal department of the jurisdiction may specify a greater amount is required. Government entities shall be exempt from this bond requirement.

5601.2.4.2 Fireworks display. The permit holder shall furnish a bond or certificate of insurance of $1,000,000 for the payment of all potential damages to a person or persons or to property by reason of the permitted display, and arising from any acts of the permit holder, the agent, employees or subcontractors. Fireworks displays shall be in accordance with guidelines established by the Fire Code Official.

5602.1 (Definition) Permissible Fireworks. Paper caps for toy pistols, toy guns, toy canes or other devices which use such caps that contain less than .25 grains (16 mg) of explosive content per cap.

5608.11 Retail display and sale. Fireworks shall not be displayed for retail sale, sold or accessible to the public within the City of Chesapeake.