Just over a week from now, the United States will celebrate its birthday with the Independence Day weekend.

A weekend-long slate of activities also is planned to celebrate Columbia's bicentennial. 

Here is a look at firework regulations in Columbia and what kinds of fireworks are available for purchase.

Residents within city limits have limited legal options for fireworks. The only type of firework allowed is sparklers. Setting off any other kind of firework is considered a misdemeanor.

There are exceptions to this rule for people who seek a permit from the city for a display, such as the annual Fire in the Sky held by the city itself. 

This year's display will be launched at about 9:15 p.m. July 4 from American Legion Park. The park will be closed to guests for safety reasons; spectators will have to find an alternate location to view the show.

The city's code regarding fireworks usage was updated in 2012. 

Residents cannot sell fireworks within city limits. There is an exception for those who have wholesale lots and a wholesale license to do business within the city for use or sale outside the limits of the city.

In other words, you can't buy up a bunch of fireworks from a wholesaler and then sell them at a markup within city limits. 

For those with wholesale lots and licensing, if their location was annexed into city limits within the past year, they still can sell from that location for the next seven years. 

More:Could a fireworks shortage affect July 4th celebrations? Phantom Fireworks urges customers to shop early

The fireworks ordinance is a matter of public safety, according to the city. 

If people have parties of 10 or more people within the next week where fireworks are set off, it can be considered a nuisance party.

Even if one does buy fireworks that are more than sparklers, don't plan on going to a city park to set them off. Fireworks of any kind are not allowed within city parks by residents. The only exception is for sponsored, organized groups who have permission from the Parks and Recreation director and/or the city council.

Tents with fireworks already have popped up just outside city limits or in nearby communities. One such place is the Spirit of '76 wholesaler, which has its tent set up across from the Midway Travel Plaza.

This business is warning that the availability of fireworks is less than in previous years. 

"Customers should expect to see shortages across various firework categories including roman candles, sparklers, novelties, multishot cakes and more," the company stated in a recent news release.

Tent sales for Spirit of '76 started last Sunday. It is open daily through July 5. Tent hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday-Sunday from 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

“We’re doing everything we can do to create a fun Fourth of July experience for mid-Missouri,” tent manager Brannon Bartlett said about the shortage. “It’s similar to other industries right now, if you want a large selection to pick from, come out early.” 

Spirit is continuing its practice from last year of curbside pick-up. Customers can order online and then choose a date and time for pick-up.