Is Fireworks Legal in Minnesota? (2026)

RESTRICTED
Confidence: High

Partially — Fireworks are legal with restrictions in Minnesota as of 2026.

Key Restriction
Age restriction: 18+ for purchase and use
Penalty
Gross misdemeanor for possessing 35 pounds or more, with a fine up to $3,000. Misdemeanor for less than 35 pounds, with a fine up to $1,000.
Last Updated
2026-03-25

Law changed in 2023: In 2023, Minnesota considered but did not pass a bill to legalize consumer fireworks.

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Quick Answer

Minnesota permits the sale and use of Class C consumer fireworks during specific periods around the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. The Minnesota Statutes Section 624.20 regulates fireworks, requiring sellers to be licensed and restricting use to certain dates and times.

Key Conditions & Exceptions:
  • Age restriction: 18+ for purchase and use

What the Law Says

Minnesota law prohibits the sale, possession, and use of most consumer fireworks. Only non-explosive and non-aerial devices are legal.

Minn. Stat. § 624.20
Category Details
Consumer Fireworks Rules Legal to possess consumer fireworks during permitted periods; illegal otherwise.
Retail Sale Rules Sale allowed only during permitted periods with a license; illegal to sell display fireworks to the public.
Penalties Fines and possible misdemeanor charges for illegal possession or sale.
Age Restriction 18+ for purchase and use
Pending Legislation None known
Recent Changes

In 2023, Minnesota considered but did not pass a bill to legalize consumer fireworks.

Enforcement Reality

Minnesota allows only non-aerial, non-explosive fireworks like sparklers and fountains. Enforcement is moderate with increased patrols around July 4th.

Charge Level
Gross misdemeanor for possessing 35 pounds or more, with a fine up to $3,000. Misdemeanor for less than 35 pounds, with a fine up to $1,000.
Enforcement Likelihood
Low, with charges for violations being rare.
Common Triggers
Possession of large quantities of illegal fireworks, use of fireworks that cause property damage or injury.
Common Mistakes

Purchasing aerial fireworks in Wisconsin or South Dakota and using them in Minnesota is the most common violation.

Local Exceptions

None identified. State law applies uniformly across Minnesota. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.

Bottom Line

Fireworks are legal with restrictions in Minnesota. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.

Minnesota vs. the Rest of the US

Across the US, buying and using fireworks is fully legal in 15 states, restricted in 30, and illegal in 5. Minnesota falls in the RESTRICTED category.

View the full 50-state map →

Neighboring States

Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Fireworks:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to buy Fireworks in Minnesota?
Partially — Fireworks are legal with restrictions in Minnesota as of 2026. Minnesota permits the sale and use of Class C consumer fireworks during specific periods around the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. The Minnesota Statutes Section 624.20 regulates fireworks, requiring sellers to be licensed and restricting use to certain dates and times.
What are the restrictions on buying and using fireworks in Minnesota?
Legal to possess consumer fireworks during permitted periods; illegal otherwise.. Sale allowed only during permitted periods with a license; illegal to sell display fireworks to the public.
What mistakes do people make with buying and using fireworks in Minnesota?
Purchasing aerial fireworks in Wisconsin or South Dakota and using them in Minnesota is the most common violation.
What is the age restriction for buying and using fireworks in Minnesota?
18+ for purchase and use
Does the law on buying and using fireworks change at the Minnesota border?
Yes. Fireworks are legal in neighboring Iowa. Laws change at state lines — check each state individually before traveling.

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EH
Ethan Harper Independent Legal Researcher

Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.

Last reviewed: 2026-03-25 Method: Statute cross-reference

Sources & Verification

1.
Primary Citation
2.
Statute Summary
Minnesota law prohibits the sale, possession, and use of most consumer fireworks. Only non-explosive and non-aerial devices are legal.
Verified: 2026-03-25 Reviewed by: Ethan Harper Method: Statute cross-reference Confidence: High

This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

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