As the new year approaches there’s no shortage of loud booms throughout many Oahu neighborhoods. Now we hear from the Honolulu Fire Department that the number of firecrackers being set off without breaking the law will be down significantly this year.

According to HFD, only 17,676 firecracker permits have been issued compared to 20,951 in 2017. Fewer licenses were issued to stores wanting to sell firecrackers, 59 this year compared to 62 last year.

HFD is also reminding people that all other fireworks are illegal on Oahu.

“We hope that people will respect the fireworks ordinance and understand the dangers associated with firecracker use,” Fire Chief Manuel Neves said. “While the number of fireworks-related injuries on Oahu is typically lower than elsewhere in the nation, even a single incident is one too many because it causes suffering, which is preventable. If people take the necessary precautions and obey the rules, we will truly have a happy New Year’s Eve.”

On Oahu, firecrackers may be ignited or discharged from 9 p.m. on December 31 until 1 a.m. on January 1.

The rules for where you’re allowed to use firecrackers are also very specific. For example, they can’t be used too close to a hospital, elderly care facilities, facilities that care for animals, and hotels. And did you know it’s illegal for children to use firecrackers even with adult supervision?

It is unlawful for any person on Oahu to:

Throw ignited firecrackers at a person or an animal. Throw ignited firecrackers from above the first floor of any building. Throw ignited firecrackers from, at, or into a vehicle. Ignite firecrackers on public ways, in parks, cane fields, or places of worship. Ignite firecrackers on public beaches and in forest or wildlife preserves. Ignite firecrackers in school buildings or on school grounds. Ignite firecrackers within 1,000 feet of hospitals, health and elderly care facilities, and facilities that care for animals, including the zoo. Ignite firecrackers within 500 feet from a hotel. Offer for sale, sell, or give any firecrackers to minors. Pursuant to Chapter 20, Revised Ordinances of Honolulu (ROH), it is illegal for minors to use firecrackers on Oahu, even with adult supervision. Possess or use aerial fireworks, unless the HFD’s Fire Chief issues a display permit per Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Chapter 132D. Transport firecrackers in carry-on or checked luggage, airline cargo, or mail. Remove or extract pyrotechnic contents.

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the public displays conducted by licensed professionals,” Chief Neves said.

Public Fireworks Displays on Oahu (All firing times are approximate):

Kahala

10 p.m.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Lagoon

10:30 p.m.

Kahala Resort & Hotel

Midnight

Ko Olina – Sites B & C

Midnight

Waikiki

Midnight

Turtle Bay Resort

11:59 p.m.

Click here for more fireworks shows across the state.