Can you set off 4th of July fireworks in Fort Myers and Cape Coral? What to know

The 4th of July calls for barbecues, pool parties, and of course, fireworks.

You can catch a few fireworks shows around Lee, but if you're looking to set your own fireworks off we have you covered.

Here's what you need to know about setting off your own fireworks in Lee County.

Is it legal to set off fireworks in Lee?

Usually noisy or projectile fireworks are illegal in the state of Florida, but a 2020 law lists a few exceptions.

Floridians can set off fireworks on New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, and Independence Day.

Lee County allows the use of permitted fireworks, but even holidays don't give an all-clear for certain neighborhoods.

If you live in an HOA community, check the rules before setting off fireworks.

Lee County also prohibits setting off personal fireworks in Fort Myers Beach.

What kind of fireworks are allowed?

When you think of fireworks, you probably picture the giant colorful ones that turn the entire sky bright.

But these aren't the kind of fireworks you're allowed to set off on your own.

• Permitted fireworks:

  • Emit a shower of sparks upon burning

  • Do not contain any explosive compounds

  • Do not detonate or explode

  • Hand-held or ground-based

  • Cannot propel themselves through the air

  • No more than 100 grams of the chemical compound that produces sparks upon burning

  • Snakes

  • Smoke devices

  • Trick noisemakers

  • Party poppers

  • Booby traps

  • Snappers

  • Trick match

• Prohibited fireworks:

  • Firecrackers

  • Torpedoes

  • Skyrockets

  • Roman candles

  • Daygo bombs

  • Any fireworks that have explosive or flammable compounds

How old do I need to be to buy fireworks?

You must be 18 years old to purchase fireworks.

Where can I get fireworks?

• Sky King Fireworks: 15901 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers

• Phantom Fireworks of Fort Myers: 16243 S Tamiami Trail Suite 4, Fort Myers

How do you stay safe while handling fireworks?

• Never lt children play with or handle fireworks, including sparklers

• Keep a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or garden hose nearby in case you need it

• Only light one item at a time and don't try to re-light a "dud." Soak them in water and throw them away

• Don't use unwrapped items or items that may have been tampered with

• Only use fireworks and sparklers on a hard, flat surface. Don't light them on grass.

• Only buy fireworks from licensed vendors

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Lee County, Fort Myers guide to setting off 4th of July fireworks