Fireworks Frequently Asked Questions
A PERMIT ALONG WITH THE FOLLOWING IS REQUIRED IN ORDER TO PROMOTE OR EXECUTE A COMMERCIAL OR CONSUMER FIREWORK DISPLAY WITHIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN:
- A site plan of the grounds where the display is to be held must be submitted and approved by AFD Emergency Prevention.
- A copy of a pyrotechnic operator license issued by a State Fire Marshal’s Office (Commercial only).
- A list of the fireworks to be used along with an MSDS for each (Commercial Only). Consumer Displays are restricted to ground devices containing 50mg or less of explosive composition and smoke devices classed as explosive 1.4G, firecrackers and small smoke bombs only.
- A certificate of insurance must be obtained for a minimum of $1,000,000 bodily injury and $500,000 property damage if the display is aerial in nature. Non-aerial displays must have a certificate of insurance for a minimum of $500,000 bodily injury and $300,000 property damage insurance. The City of Austin must be named as co-insured on the policy.
- A $50 permit fee and permit application form from the Austin Fire Department is required.
- A public display permit must be obtained from the State Fire Marshal’s Office (commercial only).
All information must be submitted to AFD Emergency Prevention Office at least 10 days prior to the scheduled event for review and approval. The public display must meet all State of Texas requirements as outlined in Article 5.43-4 Insurance Code and Firework rules. This booklet is available from the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office.
The following expenses are the responsibility of the fireworks contractor or pyrotechnic operator (if required):
- $160/hour for each engine, depending on circumstances
- $119/hour for each inspector required. Inspectors are required to stand by 30 minutes prior to the event, during the event, and 30 minutes after the event has ended, plus any required time for a minimum of two hours.
For a fireworks display permit call (512) 974-0160.
