HOWARD COUNTY, MD — If you're planning on using fireworks in Howard County, make sure you know which ones are legal and which ones can cost you in the form of a fine of up to $1,000.

The sale, possession and residential use of of ground-based sparklers is prohibited in Howard County, according to officials. Violators are subject to a fine of up to $1,000. Devices known as party poppers, ignitable snakes, snap ’n pops and handheld sparklers are legal, but they can be dangerous, officials note.

Below are the only fireworks allowed by state law for Marylanders to use except in Baltimore City, Montgomery and Prince George's counties where all fireworks are illegal:

Examples of items that are prohibited by state law include:

Police officers can issue a criminal citation and confiscate fireworks that violate state law.

The OSFM operates a bomb squad that regulates Maryland's explosive and fireworks industries. On its website, the OSFM shares several tips when using legal fireworks for the holiday:

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