Permits and Insurance

• 1). Check to see if your state allows the use of elaborate fireworks in a show (see Resource 1). Some states don't allow fireworks, though others will let you fire off certain types of pyrotechnics as long as you have a state operator's license or the more basic term of permit.
  
  
• 2). Obtain your state permit by going to your state fire marshal's office, filling out an application and paying the permit fee, which (as of January 2010) is usually about $100.
  
  
• 3). Talk with your state fire marshal's office about the safety of the location you'll be firing the fireworks. Some states require a safety inspection and discussion of safety codes after obtaining your permit in the event you're doing the display yourself.
  
  
• 4). Find a local fireworks dealer who will supply the pyrotechnics for your show as an option. Research dealers carefully to see if they have an insurance policy that will cover everything in the event something goes awry. If you're supplying the fireworks yourself, be sure to obtain an insurance policy that covers all property damage or human injury.
  
  
• 5). Keep your certificate of insurance in a safe, nearby place during your fireworks display just in case county or state police stop by to check to see if you have a permit and insurance.
  
  

Budget and Location

• 1). Save at least $10,000 if you want to have a display that's truly spectacular for a small community show. A purchase of major fireworks that draws a crowd can't really be done on a budget and can even run up to as much as $100,000 if you want a state-of-the-art display.
  
  
• 2). Choose a display location that's away from dry vegetation and generally wide open so landing debris won't create the potential for fire or injury to spectators.
  
  
• 3). Plan your location by drawing it out on paper and indicating where on the grounds you'll be firing off the fireworks. Indicate where the crowd will be, where you'll place your barriers and the distance you'll need between fireworks and the spectators. Study the National Fire Protection Agency code rule book (see Resources) in order to get the proper distance you'll need between a crowd of people and the pyrotechnics you're using.
  
  

Music and Automatic Displays

• 1). Find songs that might be suitable to use in a fireworks show, particularly patriotic.
  
  
• 2). Use digital editing software (see Resource 3) to fit the songs together into a show.
  
  
• 3). Plan whether you'll be firing your fireworks manually or using an electrical system that can be programmed to set off fireworks at precise intervals. Electrical systems add much more to the expense, but they can be bought at a fireworks dealer online or in your area.