After months of advocacy led by Commissioner Lesley Briones, Harris County’s first-ever fireworks sales season for the Diwali holiday kicks off on October 25. This moment is a milestone for the region’s South Asian community and a marker of progress in Harris County’s efforts to celebrate its diverse communities.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important holidays celebrated by over a billion Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs worldwide, and approximately 150,000 in the Greater Houston region. Robust firework displays embody the essence of the Diwali holiday which honors the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. 

In 2023, the Texas Legislature passed House Bill 608 allowing expanded fireworks sales during Diwali, to the extent such sales are approved by each county’s Commissioners Court.

Commissioner Briones led this effort in Harris County after listening to South Asian community members and local businesses. The community emphasized the importance of fireworks to Diwali and their safety concerns about storing fireworks purchased during the New Year’s Eve and Independence Day fireworks sales seasons.

On September 19, Commissioner Briones’ measure to allow the sale of fireworks for Diwali, crafted in partnership with the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, passed with 4 votes.

“I have the privilege of representing a significant concentration of individuals who celebrate Diwali in Texas. This Diwali fireworks sales season allows us to preserve centuries-old traditions, keep business in Harris County, and amplify diverse voices across Harris County. I am grateful for the partnership of Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen, Executive Assistant Chief Rodney Reed, and first responders throughout Harris County in ensuring the safety of our residents. This measure is another step toward making Harris County even more inclusive and respectful of all families.”

The Diwali fireworks season, which ends at midnight November 1, will be subject to Commissioners Court’s annual authorization.

"As you gather to celebrate the vibrant festival of Diwali, I urge everyone to enjoy the beauty of the season with safety in mind," said Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen. "Fireworks, though traditional, if not used and extinguished properly, can be hazardous, especially during a drought. Please handle fireworks, diyas and candles with care. Always have water on hand when using fireworks, and avoid using them in dry, grassy areas. Let's make this Diwali as safe as it is bright, protecting our families, homes, and communities while celebrating the light and joy of the season."

While it is legal to buy, possess, and use consumer fireworks in unincorporated Harris County, they are prohibited in the City of Houston.

Harris County is currently under a burn ban because of weather conditions. As such, Commissioners Court passed restrictions on the sale of certain types of fireworks for the safety of the community. Vendors will not be allowed to sell “tail and fin” fireworks, which typically include skyrockets, missiles, and bottle rockets during the burn ban.

If you choose to use consumer fireworks, read the caution labels carefully, have a water source available for emergencies, and soak used fireworks thoroughly before disposing of them in the trash. For additional safety information, please visit the HCFMO website.