Celebrate 4th of July safely; Fireworks illegal in Dover

posted on: 6/30/2025

As Independence Day approaches, Police Chief William Breault and Fire Chief Perry Plummer are reminding residents that consumer fireworks are not only dangerous, they’re also illegal in the City of Dover.

According to city ordinance, “no person, firm, partnership or corporation shall offer for sale, expose for sale, sell at retail, purchase, possess, transport, use or explode any fireworks without a permit.”

Permits are granted only for approved displays conducted by licensed operators using Class C fireworks. Displays must be authorized by both the Fire and Rescue Chief and the Police Chief, and operators must hold a valid license or a certificate of competency from the State of New Hampshire.

Fireworks pose serious risks. The National Fire Protection Association reports fireworks cause nearly 20,000 fires annually, resulting in more than $100 million in property damage. In 2024, an estimated 14,700 people were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries, a 52% increase from the previous year. Children under 15 accounted for nearly one-third of those injured.

Beyond physical harm, fireworks can also cause significant distress for military veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder and can be traumatic or frightening for pets.

Residents are encouraged to choose safe and festive alternatives, such as:

• Glow sticks
• Red and blue bubbles
• Silly string
• Confetti poppers
• Party crackers
• Pinwheels

For more information, contact Dover Fire and Rescue at 516-6169.