NC H98

Legalizes possession, sale, and use of consumer fireworks (1.4G category) in North Carolina, but only in counties or cities that adopt local ordinances permitting them

Restricts consumer fireworks use to persons 18 or older, generally between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM, with extended hours until midnight on July 4th and New Year's Eve/Day

Requires retailers to obtain permits from the Insurance Commissioner, maintain $5 million in liability insurance, and comply with NFPA safety standards; permit fees range from $100 for incidental sparkler retailers to $5,000 for consumer fireworks retailers

Prohibits fireworks use within 1,500 feet of hospitals, veterinary facilities, child care centers, gas stations, and schools without authorization; bans use in public parks unless specifically permitted

Raises the minimum age for purchasing any fireworks or pyrotechnics from 16 to 18; becomes effective December 1, 2025