Reminder: Firecracker permit applications still available on Kaua‘i

With New Year’s Eve celebrations around the corner, Kaua‘i residents wanting to set off firecrackers are reminded to fill out a permit application by Dec. 31.

Firecracker permit applications are available online only.

Kaua‘i County Fire officials remind the public that fireworks and firecrackers may only be ignited on private property between 9 p.m. on Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. on Jan. 1. Only licensed pyrotechnicians with proper permits may ignite aerial fireworks.

To apply for a firecracker permit, applicants should follow the instructions provided on the County’s online portal. A smartphone or tablet is recommended to make it easier to upload a photo ID.

Begin by visiting the County’s Online Portal. Select the Kaua‘i Fire Department icon here and then select the Firecracker Permit icon. If the application is approved, the permit will be emailed to the applicant.

The permit must then be printed and taken to the Kaua‘i Fire Department Headquarters at 4444 Rice St., Suite 315, in Līhu‘e, any weekday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Dec. 31, to be validated.

Assistance is available at the Fire Department Headquarters for anyone who needs help creating a connect.kauai.gov account or does not have access to a printer. Staff can assist with the application process and collect payments in person.

Online payments may be submitted through the County’s Online Portal, and in-person payments may be made by cash or check. Checks must be made payable to the Director of Finance.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. All permits printed from connect.kauai.gov must be validated in person.

Officials also note that several items classified as firecrackers do not require a permit for purchase. These include snakes, sparklers, fountains, cylindrical or cone fountains, whistles, toy smoke devices, wheels and ground spinners, and similar products.

The Kaua‘i Fire Department reminds the public that setting off fireworks or firecrackers on public property, including streets, sidewalks, and parks, is illegal. Removing powder or pyrotechnic contents from any fireworks is also prohibited. Fireworks should only be ignited on a smooth and flat surface away from structures, dry vegetation, and other flammable materials.

The public is further advised that all aerial luminaries, including flying lanterns and flying luminaries, are prohibited across the State of Hawai‘i under HRS 132-19.

The Kaua‘i Fire Department urges everyone to exercise caution when igniting firecrackers, follow all safety instructions, and ensure that children are closely supervised at all times.

For more information on fire safety or questions about permit applications, contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985.