Can You Shoot Off “Illegal” Fireworks In The Boise Area?

Well, that's not a yes or no answer. In fact, it's been one of those questions that has plagued city officials and residents for as long as I can remember.

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Moving here from California in 1996, there were two things I was told. Number one, remove your California plates asap and you can buy "illegal" fireworks in Idaho!

READ MORE: What You Need To Know Before You Light Off Fireworks In Idaho

The term "illegal" is a common reference to a class of fireworks that do things the "safe & sane" fireworks don't do. Like exploding and flying into the air or both!

As a kid, we only had the "safe & sane" fireworks. The typical box would include sparklers, fountains, ground bloom flowers, and snakes. All relatively safe if used properly.

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Scary fact: more people are hurt each year using sparklers than almost any other firework. Why? Well, because once lit, they burn at close to 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt metal and cause third-degree burns.

And even once they are done sparkling, the metal rod remains hot enough to start a fire or brand someone's fingers or toes.

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Amazingly, these are usually the first fireworks we hand our kids! They now make them with wooden sticks, but they remain dangerous in the wrong hands.

Photo via UW Medicine on YouTube

Now, it Idaho, we can buy the "illegal" fireworks legally. Of course, before you can walk out of that big warehouse like Fat City Fireworks or tent/trailer/temporary stand like Lee Family Fireworks on the edge of town, you have to sign a waiver saying you won't use them in the state.

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So, yes, if you're new. You can purchase aerial fireworks in Idaho, but you just can't use them in Idaho. I don't know a single person that signed that waiver, full well knowing they will be shooting them off in their cul-de-sac in an Idaho neighborhood.

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That begs the question: If you can't use aerial fireworks (illegal fireworks) in Idaho, then why do they sell them in Idaho? I have asked that question to firefighters and law enforcement for years and the answer is always the same.

READ MORE: What are the laws for fireworks in Idaho?

Hands up, shoulders shrugged, and a questioning smirk on the face. Nobody really knows, and quite frankly, until someone catches the foothills on fire or blows off their fingers, nobody seems to really care.

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The reality is, there aren't enough cops or firefighters to enforce the fireworks laws on the books. But, if by chance you do get caught using "illegal" fireworks, there are fines and penalties. And maybe the title of being the unluckiest person on the 4th of July!

If you can, be mindful of those you know that may suffer from PTSD or have Autistic noise sensitivity. Also, secure your pets and animals that may have anxiety due to fireworks.

READ MORE: How To Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks

Just keep in mind, with this being America's 250th birthday this year, the 4th of July will no doubt be the biggest and loudest celebration in a long time.

Staff / Getty Images

So, can we all be safe, sane, and perhaps save some money, a potential injury, and/or fine, and just let the pros blow things up while we enjoy the view?

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I think we all know the answer to that question.