Birch Bay 4th of July Information:
From the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office
Date and times for Fireworks Discharge:
- July 3rd: 6pm until 11pm
- July 4th: 6pm until MIDNIGHT
- July 5th: 6pm until 11pm
What Fireworks are legal?
Consumer fireworks sold at a Washington State Licensed and Whatcom County Permitted stand are allowed to be used in the county. The Washington State Patrol has a list of legal and illegal fireworks and a document about the difference between legal and illegal explosive devices on their website.
Legal Tribal Land Fireworks
Firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles, and rockets are legal to possess and discharge on tribal lands ONLY. These items are illegal in Washington State and become illegal fireworks when possessed off tribal lands.
Illegal Fireworks and Improvised Explosive Devices
M-80’s and larger, dynamite and any improvised, homemade or altered explosive devices such as tennis balls or cherry bombs are illegal explosive devices. Persons in possession or using illegal explosive devices can be charged with a felony.
What about sky lanterns?
Sky lanterns are NOT a firework, but are regulated by State and County fire code. Sky lanterns are only allowed to be lit as long as they are tethered (i.e. kite string, twine, etc.) and controlled at all times. They must remain tethered until they are extinguished and then should be retrieved for proper disposal. Lighting a sky lantern un-tethered can be charged criminally through the Fire Code and as a Reckless Burning if any fire is started due to their use.
Incorporated Cities
Fireworks sales and discharge laws differ in each incorporated city in Whatcom County. Please contact each respective city’s fire official for information on fireworks within those jurisdictions.
Whatcom County's Website regarding Consumer Firework Usage CLICK HERE FOR NFPA FIREWORK INFO