(a) Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to prohibit: the use of fireworks by railroads, other transportation agencies, or law enforcement officers for signal purposes or illumination; the sale or use of blank cartridges for a show or theatre, for signal or ceremonial purposes in athletics or sports, or for use by military organizations; the use of explosives for blasting or similar purposes; the use of fireworks by farmers to control birds in crops.

(b) The state fire marshal shall have the power to adopt reasonable rules for the importation, sale, purchase and use of fireworks to be used solely for the purpose of frightening birds from crops. Application for permits for importation, purchase and use by farmers shall be made to the board of selectmen or town fire wardens of the town in which the farmer intends to use such fireworks for the sole purpose of frightening birds from crops. Permits shall be issued for such use only, at such times and such locations, as to present no fire or safety hazard within the area. (Amended 1959, No. 147.)