Fireworks are illegal to possess or use in the City of Austin unless a permit has been issued for a professional display. These permits are issued by the AFD Special Events only if several requirements are met. Contact afdspecialevents@austintexas.gov for details.  Requests for aerial fireworks must be submitted at least 30 days prior to scheduled event. Requests for flame effect, open flame performances, etc., must be submitted at least 14 days prior to scheduled event.

Fireworks Display Requirements

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 Special Events.
  • 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 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. Requests for aerial fireworks must be submitted at least 30 days prior to scheduled event. Requests for flame effect, open flame performances, etc., must be submitted at least 14 days prior to scheduled event.  It is recommended you begin the process early to ensure requirements can be met. 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.

Apply for a Fireworks Permit (licensed pyrotechnic company only) - Pyro, Burn, and Flame Special Effects Permit Application

Apply for an Austin Center for Events (ACE) application (event organizer only) - Special Event Permitting Process