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SEC-018: Fireworks Display

Date: 07/25/2005 Status: Final
Last Revised: 08/21/2024
Policy Type: University
Oversight Executive: Associate Vice President for Safety & Security and Chief of Police
Applies To:

Academic Division and the Medical Center.

Reason for Policy:

To protect life, health and property at the University from fires caused by the use of fireworks and pyrotechnics.

Definition of Terms in Statement:
  • Fireworks:A device consisting of a combination of explosives and combustibles, set off to generate colored lights, smoke and noise for amusement.1
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    1The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Third Edition copyright © 1992 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Electronic version licensed from INSO Corporation; further reproduction and distribution restricted in accordance with the Copyright Law of the U.S. All rights reserved..
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  • Pyrotechnics:1. The art of manufacturing or setting off fireworks. 2. A fireworks display.2
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    2The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright © 2002 by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved..
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Policy Statement:

Fireworks and pyrotechnics can only be displayed or discharged at the University by individuals licensed to do so and only then after the site and activity has been approved by the Department of Safety & Security, Office of Fire Safety and the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Additionally, a fireworks/pyrotechnics permit must be obtained from the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SMFO). The Department of Safety & Security, Office of Fire Safety should be contacted and they will obtain the permit from the SMFO. There is a fee imposed by the SMFO for these permits.

Additionally, licensed individual(s) and/or firms conducting the fireworks and pyrotechnics must have a bond or insurance that has been reviewed and approved by the University’s Office of Risk Management.

Fireworks and pyrotechnics can not be discharged when wind speeds are in excess of 20 miles per hour. Storage or possession of any fireworks and pyrotechnics by any non-licensed individuals is not permitted at the University.

The Department of Safety & Security, Office of Fire Safety and/or the State Fire Marshal’s Office have the right to call off a scheduled fireworks or pyrotechnics show at any time.

Compliance with Policy: 
Failure to comply with the requirements of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion in accordance with relevant University policies and may result in prosecution in accordance with state and federal law. This includes complying with the applicable adopted version of the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code along with the associated legal proceedings to restrain, correct, or abate such alleged violation.

Questions about this policy should be directed to the Department of Safety & Security, Office of Fire Safety.

Major Category:
Safety, Security and Environmental Quality
Next Scheduled Review:
01/13/2026
Approved By, Date:
Policy Review Committee, 07/25/2005
Revision History:

Updated Contact Office and Oversight Exec 8/21/24; Confirmed 1/13/23; Confirmed 10/25/19; Updated 8/8/08. Previous version in effect from 3/1/1999 through 7/24/05.

Supersedes (previous policy):

Fireworks Display XIV.J.1