STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As New Yorkers gear up to celebrate the Fourth of July, the state’s top official is reminding residents that one of the most popular party favors may not be illegal in their area.
On Friday, Gov. Kathy Hochul reminded residents that the possession and use of sparkling devices, often referred to as sparklers, is illegal in cities with populations of more than one million people and in parts of that state where they are prohibited by local law. This includes New York City and the following counties; Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Erie, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange (prohibited in the Cities of Middletown and Newburgh only), Queens, Richmond, Schenectady, Suffolk, Warren and Westchester.
That means Staten Islanders, and anyone else living in the aforementioned counties, would need to travel to other parts of the state to use sparklers legally. “As we celebrate this 4th of July with family and friends, it’s important that everyone take proper precautions to keep each other safe,” Hochul said. “New Yorkers should exercise caution while using legal sparkling devices and enjoy this special day.
” State law also limits when and where sparklers can be sold. Sales of sparkling devices by certified permanent and specialty retailers can only take place from June 1 to July 5, while sales of sparkling devices by certified temporary stands or tents can only occur from June 20 to July 5. A list of all certified sparkler retailers in the state can be found here.
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