A guide to fireworks laws in central Alabama

The Fourth of July is just days away, with much of central Alabama prepped and ready to celebrate the holiday throughout the weekend. Food truck festivals, community cookouts and concerts are just some of the Independence Day events you can attend, and who can forget the fireworks displays.Personal firework usage, however, is majorly restricted in most of the state and those caught in violation could face hefty fines.The rules and regulations regarding the rockets red glare can be confusing at times; thankfully, we've got you covered.Who can buy fireworks?It is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to purchase fireworks in the state of Alabama unless they are accompanied by an adult.Vendors are also forbidden from selling fireworks to anyone who appears to be "intoxicated or irresponsible"What's allowed:Small ground items, noisemakers and toy novelties including:FirecrackersBottle rocketsSmoke bombsSparklersSpinners/WheelsSnappersToy snakesAssorted missiles and sky rockets are also allowed if they contain less than 130mg of explosive composition.What's not allowed:Items containing two different grains of explosives, commonly referred to as "illegal ground salutes" including:M-80'sCherry bombsSilver salutesFirecrackers containing more than 50mg of explosive composition.Aerial devices containing more than 130mg of explosive composition.While these rules may seem straight forward, firework regulations can vary pretty wildly from city to city. Visit your local fire departments website for more information or find your city below: AnnistonBirminghamCullman HelenaHomewoodHooverMountain BrookTuscaloosaVestavia HillsWant to leave the firework displays to the professionals? See below for a list of major Independence Day events in our area: