Rooftops, Rivers, and Rockets: The Special Rules for Unique Fireworks Displays

Some of the most breathtaking fireworks displays happen in incredible locations—exploding over a city skyline from a rooftop or reflecting beautifully off the water from a barge. While these shows are spectacular, launching powerful explosives from a location with limited space and egress introduces a whole new level of risk.

Because of this, the NFPA 1123 code has dedicated chapters (Chapter 6 for floating vessels and Chapter 7 for rooftops and other structures) outlining the special, stricter rules that apply. If you're planning a show in anything other than a wide-open field, here’s a plain-English look at the extra precautions you need to take.

The First Rule: Is Your Launch Pad Strong Enough?

Before anything else, the structure itself—whether it's a rooftop, bridge, tower, or floating platform—must be strong and stable enough to safely handle the force of the display. You can't just set up on any old barge or building. The location must be approved by both the property owner and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). An operator for these types of shows must have the specialized knowledge and experience required for these unique locations.

Firing from the Water (Chapter 6)

Launching fireworks from a barge or floating platform creates a stunning visual, but it also means the crew is isolated and surrounded by unique hazards. The code lays out several key requirements:

• No Reloading Allowed: This is a major difference from land-based shows. For displays on floating platforms, all fireworks must be loaded into their mortars *before* the display begins. There is absolutely no reloading of any materials during the display.
• Safety for the Crew: If the vessel is manned during the show, it must have a safety shelter for the crew that is built with at least three sides and a roof, constructed from a minimum of 3/4-inch plywood or an equivalent material.
• Water Safety is Paramount: A U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) must be provided and available for every single person on board. Additionally, a separate watercraft must be present and ready to provide rapid emergency response during the display.

Firing from Rooftops and Other Structures (Chapter 7)

Urban environments present their own set of challenges, from air conditioning units to nearby buildings. Chapter 7 of the code addresses these directly.

• No Reloading (Again): Just like with floating platforms, there is no reloading of any fireworks during a display on a rooftop or similar structure. Everything must be preloaded.
• Protecting the Building Itself: All openings on the structure must be protected. This means covering any HVAC or ventilation intakes to prevent smoke from entering the building. Sewer vent pipes must also be covered to stop flammable materials from getting in. Any glass windows or fragile ornamentation in the display area must also be shielded from potential damage.
• Clear Skies Above: Launching from a high place means you need to be aware of what's even higher. The code requires that there be no overhead towers, antennas, or electric lines within 25 feet of the shell's intended flight path.

A Common Thread: Electronic Firing is a Must

For these special, limited-egress locations, walking around with a flare to hand-light fireworks is generally not allowed. The code specifies that fireworks on trailers, and by extension rooftops and floating platforms where personnel are close to the action, must be ignited electronically.

Manual firing is only permitted under very strict and limited conditions, such as using only preloaded, smaller, single-break shells and having a protective barrier for the shooter to stand behind.

While this guide reflects our interpretation of the code, it is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional consultation or legal guidance. For a complete and official understanding, we strongly encourage you to review the latest version of the full code on the NFPA's website: NFPA 1123, Code for Fireworks Display (Free Online Access).