Fireworks are illegal in some Lowcountry areas. Here’s where you can set them off
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – Ringing in the new year with the pop, sizzle, and bang of colorful fireworks is a New Year’s Eve tradition — but they technically are not allowed in every Lowcountry municipality.
Before you run out and purchase a pack (or more) of fireworks, it’s important to know where you can – and cannot – set them off on New Year’s Eve.
City of North Charleston – Setting off fireworks is legal year-round from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m., and on holidays like New Year’s Eve and the 4th of July, you can set them off until 1:00 a.m.
City of Hanahan – Firecrackers are only legal five days of the year in Hanahan: Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and July 4 from 10:00 a.m. until 10:59 p.m.
City of Goose Creek – You can only shoot fireworks in the city on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and July 4.
Town of Mount Pleasant – You can set off fireworks the day before and the day after a holiday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. in Mount Pleasant, in addition to the holiday.
Town of James Island – Fireworks are allowed between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. any day including the 4th of July, but that time runs later on New Year’s Eve.
Town of Summerville – People living in town limits can shoot fireworks any day between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and on the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m.
Town of Moncks Corner – Fireworks can be discharged on New Year’s Eve from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m., and on July 4 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Purchasing and setting off fireworks in the City of Charleston and on most of the islands is prohibited. This includes Folly Beach, the Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, West Ashley, and the peninsula. You can use sparklers.
Fireworks are allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. on New Year’s Eve in unincorporated Dorchester County. There are no laws set in unincorporated Charleston County.
If you are unsure, it’s always a safe idea to check with your local government or your Homeowners Association before setting off any fireworks.
Those looking to celebrate the holiday with fireworks are encouraged to be respectful of their neighbors and be reasonable when it comes to the time at which they are igniting fireworks.
