Under the New Jersey Explosives and Fireworks Act (N.J.S.A. 21:2-1 et seq., as amended by P.L.2017, C.92):
It is unlawful to sell, offer for sale, possess, or use fireworks anywhere in the State without a valid permit. However, in 2017 changes to the law now permit persons 16 years of age or older to lawfully buy, possess and use certain sparkling devices and novelties.
These permissible fireworks are limited to hand held or ground based sparklers, snakes, and glow worms; smoke devices; and trick noisemakers, including party poppers, snappers, and drop pops. The sale, possession and use of all other fireworks requires a valid permit.
A person is guilty of a crime of the fourth degree if he or she sells, offers or exposes for sale, or possesses with intent to sell, any fireworks, other than sparkling devices and novelties to persons 16 years of age or older.
A person is guilty of a petty disorderly person’s offense if he or she purchases, uses, discharges, causes to be discharged, ignites, fires or otherwise sets in action, or possesses fireworks without having the required permit. Any business that advertises, offers to sell or sells fireworks to residents of New Jersey is required to clearly and conspicuously disclose that fireworks, other than sparkling devices and novelties, are illegal to possess or use in New Jersey without a valid permit. Failure to do so would constitute a violation of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act and its regulations.
