All activities associated with the use of pyrotechnics and open flames will comply with the current IFC and adopted ordinances and require review and approval by the Austin Fire Department (e.g., outdoor fireworks and pyrotechnics.) . Those requesting the use of aerial fireworks and/or pyrotechnics must fill out an ACE application at least thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled event or the deadline established by the SEO for the event within the appropriate tier.

Fireworks Display Requirements

A PERMIT, ALONG WITH THE FOLLOWING, IS REQUIRED IN ORDER TO PROMOTE OR EXECUTE A COMMERCIAL OR CONSUMER FIREWORKS DISPLAY WITHIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN:

  • A site plan of the grounds where the display is to be held must be submitted to and approved by AFD Special Events in advance of the event.
  • 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 only ground devices containing 50mg or less of explosive composition and smoke devices classed as explosive 1.4G, firecrackers, and small smoke bombs.
  • Insurance
    • Aerial displays must carry a Certificate of Insurance for a minimum of $1,000,000 (bodily injury) and $500,000 (property damage).
    • Non-aerial displays must carry a Certificate of Insurance for a minimum of $500,000 (bodily injury) and $300,000 (property damage). The City of Austin must be named as co-insured on the policy.
  • A permit fee, along with the required apparatus and inspector standby, depending on the type of display.  View the ACE fee schedule (PDF).
  • A Public Display permit must be obtained from the State Fire Marshal’s Office (commercial only).

Special Effects/Flame Effect/Open Flame Performance Requirements

A flame effect is the combustion of flammable solids, liquids, and/or gases to produce thermal, physical, visual, and/or audible phenomena before an audience (e.g., hand-held burning torches, flaming batons or hoops, flame acts, fire walking, flaming sword dancers, open burning with religious services, candles or open flames in assembly occupancies, and/or fire or special effects for film productions). A full demonstration for the Fire Marshal prior to the event date may be required.

  • Those hosting events with 50 or more people must fill out an ACE application; the deadline is either the greater of 30 days or the deadline established by the SEO for the event within the appropriate tier.
  • Events with less than 50 people must fill out the standalone Open Flame application no less than 10 days prior to the event.