Unless you have the proper permit, it’s illegal to transport, possess or use fireworks in the state of New Jersey. But just across the Pennsylvania border there are several retail outlets that will gladly sell them to you. Check out Phantom Fireworks or Sky King Fireworks. Now, the odd thing about this is that, like New Jersey, Pennsylvania outlaws fireworks!

This leads to an interesting situation. Before you can enter the store you need to show identification proving that you are not a Pennsylvania resident. Pennsylvania residents are not allowed inside. Further, you need to affirm that your intent is to immediately remove your purchase from Pennsylvania and that you promise to comply with whatever laws are applicable to you. (No smoking inside, natch, and you have to leave your lighter and/or matches outside, too. Duh.)

New Jersey’s lawmakers, as can be expected, are not thrilled with the situation. The Pennsylvania retailers say, basically, ‘not our problem’.

Independence Day is right around the corner. Celebrate safely. Boom!