With Independence Day days away, the City of Wheeling’s Fire and Police departments are reminding residents and visitors that certain types of fireworks are prohibited within city limits.

Wheeling City Ordinance 1535.01, enacted in 1981, bans the use of any firework that is combustible, explosive, flammable, or audible and that propels into the air. Prohibited items include bottle rockets, Roman candles, sky lanterns, and similar aerial devices.

However, the ordinance does allow the use of specific consumer-grade fireworks for holiday celebrations. Permitted items include sparklers, fountains, party poppers, snaps, smoke devices, and various non-propellant noisemakers.

Although West Virginia state law changed in 2016 to allow the sale of a wider variety of fireworks, the City of Wheeling has maintained its local restrictions. Fireworks banned under the ordinance may not be discharged within city limits — regardless of where they were purchased.

Violators can face fines up to $500 and may have their fireworks confiscated. Wheeling Police officers will not target individuals purchasing or transporting fireworks but will focus enforcement on those actively discharging illegal devices.

Residents using legal fireworks are urged to keep a water source—such as a hose or a bucket of water—nearby to help prevent accidental fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 44% of fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. involve burns to the hands or fingers. More than 25% of fireworks-related fires occur during the July 4th holiday period.

The full ordinance can be viewed at wheelingwv.gov/fireworks.