NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Fourth of July fireworks are fast approaching, and while local municipalities dictate whether consumer fireworks are allowed within city limits and when, the state of Tennessee has passed other laws regulating fireworks to ensure safety.

According to the TN Fire Marshal’s Office, there were 135 fires from fireworks in 2023, which caused close to $1 million in direct damages to properties and homes. Insurance won’t always pay for the repairs.

“If you cause damages to your home and you’re in a municipality that outlaws the use of fireworks and the damages are caused by fireworks, your insurance company could say, ‘We’re not going to cover it,'” said Kevin Walters, Communications Director for the TN Dept. of Commerce and Insurance and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Local municipalities can create ordinances on whether to allow or ban consumer fireworks within city limits, however, Tennessee has its own set of rules that apply statewide.

A person must be at least 16 years old to buy fireworks in Tennessee, and 16 and 17-year-olds must show their I.D. to purchase them, according to a state law passed in 2007.

In addition, state law says it’s illegal to ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, hospital, asylum, or public school, or within 200 feet from where fireworks are stored or sold.

In 2015, drones and other unmanned aircrafts were banned from being flown in TN above an outdoor event with more than 100 people or in the vicinity of a fireworks display without the event operator’s permission.

Those searching for fireworks alternatives may not use sky lanterns without a professional license, thanks to a 2011 state law.

“They’re the paper, balloon-shaped things that are propelled by a flame,” Walters said. “There’s a candle at the bottom and the heat from the candle causes it to rise. Those can cause damages to homes and to property.”

Walters told News 2 that attending a public fireworks display hosted by a licensed professional is the safest way to view fireworks this 4th of July. However, those who choose to set off their own fireworks should ensure they’re legal in their city or town, and what dates and times they’re permitted first.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office advises those lighting their own fireworks to never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks, read and follow all warning labels and instructions, and make sure the firework is placed outdoors on a smooth, flat surface far away from homes, dry leaves, and other flammable materials.

When lighting a firework, never place any part of the body directly over a fireworks device, and back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks. Officials also encourage those igniting fireworks to always wear eye protection and keep a bucket of water nearby.

“We want everyone to celebrate the Fourth of July safely, and we want them to have a great holiday. We don’t want there to be any fires or injuries caused by consumer fireworks,” Walters said.

Fortunately, there were no firework-related deaths in Tennessee in 2023, according to the Fire Marshal’s Office.

For more information or to file a complaint about an unlicensed fireworks display, click here.