Sunapee police remind residents fireworks ordinance remains in effect for July Fourth

Sunapee police reminded residents on July 1 that the town fireworks ordinance remains in effect as backyard displays, harbor crowds and holiday traffic build toward July Fourth.

The town’s rules allow only permissible Class C fireworks, and anyone igniting them must be at least 21. Fireworks must be set off at least 50 feet from any structure, overhead utilities or woodlands, and a means of fire extinguishment must be readily accessible. They may be discharged only between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., and only on days when the New Hampshire fire danger rating is Class 1, 2 or 3.

Sunapee also limits fireworks permits to three per address per year. Applicants must appear in person before the Fire Chief or designee with proof of land ownership or written permission, photo ID and a receipt for the fireworks. Permits are not required on New Year’s Eve, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day weekend and Christmas, but the holiday exemption does not suspend the rest of the ordinance.

Failure to follow the rules can bring permit revocation, fines and responsibility for mitigation costs if fireworks lead to a fire or emergency response. A 2025 police post also required fireworks to comply with the town noise ordinance.

New Hampshire’s Division of Fire Safety allows municipalities to impose local fireworks restrictions under RSA 160-C:6, and the state’s community restrictions list is based on a biannual survey of towns and cities. NHPR updated the list May 1, 2026, and urged residents to check with local officials for the most current town-specific rules.

Sunapee’s 2026 Fourth of July schedule centers on July 5, with fireworks at 9 p.m. at dusk, plus a watermelon race on July 3 and a parade on July 4. The fireworks and harbor music are being funded through private donations, with a $40,000 fundraising goal.