Feds Make Fireworks Paperwork Go Out With a Bang
Published Date: 6/2/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting July 2, 2026, the government is making it easier and faster to get approval for certain low-risk fireworks and tracer ammo. Companies will now use one online portal to submit all explosive approvals, and they can also choose to end their approvals whenever they want. These changes save time and reduce hassle for businesses handling these materials.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 6 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Self-Certify 17 Ground Fireworks
If you make certain ground-level fireworks, you can self-certify them using the PHMSA online portal instead of waiting for PHMSA or a certification agency to approve each item. The rule lists 17 eligible ground devices and becomes effective July 2, 2026; cake and combination devices are not eligible for self-certification.
Novelties Excepted From Regulation (Ground/Rail/Vessel)
Seven novelty fireworks (for example, party poppers and novelty sparklers) that meet the rule's construction and packaging criteria are not subject to Hazardous Materials Regulations when shipped by ground, rail, or vessel. When these novelties are shipped by air, they must be described and shipped as UN3178, Flammable solid, inorganic, n.o.s., 4.1.
PHMSA Portal Is Sole Submission Method
Starting July 2, 2026, all explosives approval applications must be submitted through the PHMSA online portal; mail, email, and fax submissions will no longer be accepted. You must register for a portal account to submit approvals, including for self-certifying eligible ground devices.
Estimated Net Cost Savings and Hour Reductions
PHMSA estimates the final rule will result in net cost savings of $2.2 million (2024 dollars) over 10 years (about $200,000 per year), save 846 labor hours annually, and reduce government budget costs by $85,341 per year. PHMSA states these savings come from streamlining approvals and eliminating paper-based applications.
Tracer Ammunition Eligible for Self-Classification
Certain tracer ammunition is explicitly allowed to be self-classified as a Division 1.4S small arms cartridge if it meets the criteria in 49 CFR 173.56(h). PHMSA states the small pyrotechnic charge on tracers is considered negligible and does not increase hazard in the packaged cartridges.
Approval Holders May End Approvals Voluntarily
Approval holders may request to terminate an existing approval voluntarily, and PHMSA is not required to issue a show-cause letter when the holder requests termination. This change to Sec. 107.713 applies to all approval holders.
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Key Dates
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