Start a local fireworks display company

Towns and counties, event organizers, fairgrounds, sports clubs, resorts, golf clubs and private clients holding weddings or big parties.

A fixed fee per show, based on show size, product cost, crew, travel and insurance. Some clients rebook every year, which helps smooth out a seasonal business.

• Strict attention to safety procedures
• Planning and show design
• Leading a small crew
• Dealing with officials and clients

• Federal rules on display fireworks and explosives storage and purchasing, so check what ATF licenses or permits apply to you
• State licensing and local fire marshal permits, which differ a lot by state, county and city
• Liability insurance for fireworks is specialized and can be costly, so get quotes before committing
• Safe storage and transport rules for fireworks, including vehicle requirements
• Weather, burn bans and cancelled shows, so check contract terms on rescheduling and deposits
• Serious injury and property damage risk, so never cut corners on safety

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on equipment, vehicles, storage and insurance. Specialized fireworks liability insurance can be costly, so get quotes before you commit to any purchases.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many shows you book and what clients pay. Most work falls around holidays, summer events and celebrations, so income may be uneven across the year.

Check which ATF licenses or permits apply to display fireworks and to explosives storage and purchasing. Also check state licensing and local fire marshal permits, which differ a lot by state, county and city, plus storage and transport rules.