The Fourth of July means good food, parades and fireworks.

Lots of fireworks.

According to the American Pyrotechnic Association, there are 42 states (plus Washington, DC) that allow the general public to handle fireworks, while four -- Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Vermont – only permit novelty items to be lit. A total of four states (Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts) make it illegal for any average joe to handle fireworks.

Laws on fireworks vary from throughout the country, so before you stock up, check out this state-by-state guide from the APA detailing what you can and can’t do. It goes over storage laws, age you can purchase fireworks, licensing fees and more.

Have a safe holiday!

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