Fireworks displays and restrictions in Montgomery County - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

As the Fourth of July rapidly approaches, Montgomery County Fire Chief Richard Bowers is remaining adamant regarding the illegal status of all fireworks in Montgomery County. The counties stance against recreational fireworks stems from several tragic incidents in which individuals not familiar with the proper safety procedures ended up hurting or killing either themselves or someone nearby.

"The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is to enjoy one of the many public displays in the area," said Fire Chief Bowers.

Currently, Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70 dictates that it is illegal to possess, sell or discharge any and all fireworks in the county. The exception to that rule being those who attain the proper pyrotechnic permits beforehand. Failure to follow the fireworks embargo can result in penalties including a fine of up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail.

These restrictions on fireworks extend to bringing in fireworks from other nearby counties or states where the laws regarding fireworks are more relaxed, such as in Virginia. Also, it is illegal to make use of the mail system for the transportation of fireworks in the state of Maryland.

Furthermore, anyone who observes an illegal usage of fireworks in Montgomery County is encouraged to call this number, 301-279-8000. Don't call 911 unless the incident in question in immediately life threatening.

Finally, for those wishing to go see one of the many professional fireworks displays that will be taking place locally, information about when and where these professional displays will be held can be found below.

 • Gaithersburg, Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, Gaithersburg, Maryland. (301) 258-6350. Gates open at 5 p.m. Walk-in at Chestnut or Dalamar Streets; the Perry Parkway entrance will be closed. Entertainment at 7 p.m. Fireworks at dusk.

• Rockville, Montgomery College, Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, Maryland. Additional parking will be available at Rockville Town Center. Live entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

• Boyds/Germantown, Germantown Soccerplex, 18041 Central Park Circle, Boyds, Maryland. (240) 777-6820. Family concert at 7 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

• Poolesville, Poolesville Polo Grounds, 14660 Hughes Rd., Poolesville, Maryland. Live music begins at 6 p.m., Fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $5 per vehicle. (301) 972-8888.

• Kensington/Wheaton, Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Road, Kensington, Maryland. Entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks show will begin approximately
at 9:15 p.m. Since there will be no on-site parking at the school or at adjacent properties, except for handicapped parking, free shuttle bus service will pick up passengers beginning at 6:15 p.m. at Westfield Wheaton and the Wheaton Metro Station.

• Takoma Park, Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, Maryland. (301) 270-6876. Parade at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.