If you live within the City of Houston it's illegal to shoot fireworks and they're also banned in some other municipalities. But if you live in unincorporated Harris County they are legal with some restrictions.
Rachel Moreno with the Harris County Fire Marshal's office said fireworks are banned within 600 feet of a church, hospital, licensed child care center, or a school. In addition, some homeowners associations and apartment complexes ban fireworks so Moreno said it's best to check before you celebrate.
Harris County regulations also address what kinds of fireworks are legal. Moreno said you can only shoot fireworks that are available to consumers and you can't use professional-grade fireworks without a license.
"Make sure you read all the directions that are actually on the firework and follow those directions," said Moreno.
And while there are no designated hours for shooting fireworks, Moreno said revelers should use some common courtesy.
"Also there may be some veterans that live in your neighborhood that have PTSD and the loud fireworks may have an effect on them,"said Moreno. "And they can also have an effect on animals."
Authorities said it's also important to supervise children around fireworks because even something like a sparkler can cause serious injury.
"They actually burn at over five times hotter than boiling water," said Moreno.
Vendors are allowed to sell fireworks in unincorporated Harris County through New Year's Day.
