Image by Flickr user joelmann

It’s almost July 4. A time for barbecues, the annual viewing of 1776, and that most-beloved tradition: fireworks. There are fireworks displays all over Atlanta, starting tonight. Or, if you prefer to stay inside, there’s even an app for that.

Fireworks are one of those topics on which state laws vary significantly. In Georgia, fireworks are regulated by O.C.G.A. § 25-10-1 et seq. Here, among other things:

• the term “fireworks” does not mean model rockets or toy pistols with paper caps (25-10-1),
• a license is required for anyone wanting to put on a public fireworks display (25-10-3.2),
• not having a license is a felony and is punishable by 2-10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 or both (25-10-8),
• it is illegal to employ anyone under the age of 18 to work at a public display or where fireworks are stored (25-10-4.1), and
• it is negligence per se to sell fireworks to a minor (Allen v. Gornto, 100 Ga. App. 744 (1959)).

We hope you all have a happy — and safe — July 4!