July 4 reminder: Fireworks illegal in Houston

HOUSTON – For the first time since 2010, fireworks are being sold in southeast Texas.

No matter where you buy them, all fireworks are still illegal in the city of Houston.

"It is illegal to discharge fireworks or have fireworks in your possession in the city of Houston," said Houston Fire Department Executive Fire Chief Richard Galvan during a fireworks safety seminar Friday at HFD's Val Jahnke Training Facility.

According to HFD, more than 100 citations were written last year.

"Fines can be anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for each individual firework. Warnings are no longer going to be given because of the seriousness of the fireworks laws," said Galvan who also pointed out that areas in Harris County remain dry, adding to the fire danger.

The city of Houston will host professional fireworks displays at three different locations this year, Freedom Over Texas, Hermann Park and El Franko Lee Park.  All three are free to the public.

Fireworks are legal in parts of unincorporated Harris County.

Anybody who witnesses fireworks being used within city limits can call the HFD complaint line at 713-884-3133.