At a Glance
- Texas allows fireworks sales from Dec 20 to Jan 1.
- Business is up compared to last year and last summer.
- 20 incidents on Jan 1 2025, higher than previous years.
- Why it matters: Fireworks buyers need to know the legal window and safety tips to avoid fire hazards.
As the new year approaches, many Texans are gearing up to light up the sky with fireworks. The Texas Comptroller’s Office has set a clear window for legal sales, while local officials urge caution amid rising incidents.
Fireworks Sales Window
From December 20 through midnight on January 1, retailers across Texas can legally sell fireworks, according to the Texas Comptroller’s Office. This period aligns with the holiday season when demand typically spikes.
Business Outlook
Kelly Howard, manager of an American Fireworks Stand in Round Rock, reports strong sales during this window. She notes that revenue is already higher than the same period last year and the summer of 2024, and she expects even more activity.
Kelly Howard said:
> ‘We’re already up compared to this time last year and compared to this past summer, [and] we expect to get even busier,’ Howard said.
Safety Guidelines from County Marshal
Williamson County Chief Fire Marshal Michael Lugo emphasizes safe handling of fireworks. He advises buyers to soak used fireworks in a metal bucket of water overnight and to avoid disposing them in trash.
Michael Lugo stated:
> ‘When you’re done discharging any fireworks [make sure] to have a metal bucket filled with water and soak the discharge fireworks in a metal bucket with water overnight,’ Lugo said. ‘Do not put the fireworks that were discharged into your trash can because they can still be hot [and] have hot embers inside and create a fire in your trash can.’
Incident Statistics
The Austin Fire Department recorded 20 firework-related incidents on January 1, 2025-up from 12 the previous year and 13 in 2023. The spike underscores the need for careful disposal and adherence to safety recommendations.
| Year | Incidents |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 13 |
| 2024 | 12 |
| 2025 | 20 |
These numbers reflect a growing trend in firework-related emergencies during the holiday season.
Key Takeaways
- Fireworks can be sold legally from Dec 20 to Jan 1.
- Sales are higher than in recent years, but safety risks are rising.
- Proper disposal-soaking in water overnight-is essential to prevent fires.
With sales permitted until the new year’s midnight, Texans can enjoy fireworks responsibly by following safety guidelines and staying aware of the rising incident rates.
