Fireworks and Equine Safety

It’s the LAW

Fireworks Law and Equine Safety, January 2023

Consumer fireworks displays in Pennsylvania are recognized as a cause of great distress to horses and other animals. The justified concern for the safety of horses and horse owners has garnered a positive change in Pennsylvania law.

Thanks to vocal horse owners across the state who contacted their legislators, the conditions for displaying consumer fireworks have been modified.
     • Fireworks may not be displayed within 150 feet of animal housing facility or fenced area
     • 72- hour notice to animal owners before Fireworks are displayed 150 to 300 feet from an animal housing facility
       or fenced area.
     • Local municipalities can enact further limitations on fireworks displays.
     • Increased penalties for using consumer fireworks in violation of the Act.

Fireworks are a Pennsylvania tradition. A tradition that can pose extreme danger to horses and horse owners. As a horse owner or stable manager, ensure your neighborhood, local police and local municipalities are aware the law.

The Pennsylvania Equine Council has created free resources to support your conversation with your neighbors, local authorities and municipalities. Feel free to download and share across your community.
     •Fireworks and Equine Safety poster for use in Pennsylvania communities

Pa C.S. Title 3; Chapter 11, Section 1104 (c)

§ 1104. Use of consumer fireworks.
(c) Conditional use. – No person may use consumer fireworks within 150 feet of an animal housing facility, or a fenced area designed to confine livestock owned or managed by another person. If a person uses consumer fireworks at a distance of 150 to 300 feet from an animal housing facility or fenced area designed to confine livestock owned or managed by another person, the user of consumer fireworks shall notify in writing the owner or manager of the livestock at least 72 hours in advance of the use that consumer fireworks will be used in the area.

Please share your experiences regarding fireworks with the Pennsylvania Equine Council so that we may better serve you as a horse owner in your discussions with legislators.

Capri Stiles-Mikesell,
January, 2023