1. Commercial
2. Dangerous
3. Consumer commonly known as "Safe and Sane".
Commercial firework displays are typically used for display for large public audiences. They are maintained and monitored by licensed pyrotechnicians and local fire departments during the setup and launching process. A permit is often required to possess and discharge such pyrotechnics.
Dangerous fireworks are explosives such as M-80's firecrackers and even small firecrackers known as "Ladie Fingers". It is illegal to possess (12677 H&S) or discharge (12680 H&S) such fireworks anywhere in California.
"Safe and Sane" fireworks are legal in some California counties, unincorporated areas and cities.
The county I live in Maryland BANs all types of consumer fireworks. They only allow professional fireworks to be put on at public dispalys.
Other counties and states around vary in their laws.
Texas allows the sale of "dangerous" type during the July 4th and New Year holidays. Firecrackers, skyrockets, Roman candles, etc. My county allows what the state allows even when there should be a burn ban which is usually lifted for the sale. It seems that money talks louder then safety here. My fellow VFD members and myself cringe during this time of year.
On the good note, a professional pyrotechic business puts on a great show over the local lake every July 4th. This business solicates for donations with all profits given to my VFD. TCSS
IN PA IF THEY ARE THE FUN ONES THEY ARE ILLEGAL...LOL. HOWEVER FOR THE MOST PART IN THE OUTSKIRTS OF THE CITIES IN THE MORE RURAL SETTINGS IT "IS USUALLY OK". THE POLICE FOR THE MOST PART TURN A BLIND EYE TO IT UNLESS THEY GET COMPLAINTS OR SOME ONE OR SOMETHING IS INJURED OR ENDANGERED.