Fireworks Laws In California (2026): Your Complete Legal Guide

Most people have no idea how strict California’s firework laws actually are. Seriously. But here’s the thing—if you get caught with the wrong kind of firework, you could face fines up to $50,000 and a year in jail. Yeah, you read that right.

California is serious about fireworks. The state seized over 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks in 2025 alone. That’s because fireworks cause dangerous wildfires. And in California, wildfire season is no joke. Let’s break down exactly what you need to know before you light anything up.

What Are Fireworks, Legally Speaking?

Wondering what counts as a “firework” in California? Here’s the legal definition: it’s any device that contains chemical elements that don’t need oxygen to burn and creates audible, visual, mechanical, or thermal effects for entertainment. Basically, if it makes a bang, a spark, or a loud noise for fun—it’s a firework.

Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, California divides fireworks into two categories. And this part matters because one is legal and one will get you in serious trouble.

Safe and Sane Fireworks vs. Dangerous Fireworks

California allows only one type of firework for regular people: “Safe and Sane” fireworks. These are the legal ones. They must have the State Fire Marshal’s seal. Without that seal? It’s illegal.

Safe and Sane fireworks include things like certain sparklers, fountains, and ground spinners. They’re designed to be less dangerous than other types. But here’s what most people miss: even these legal fireworks have strict rules about when you can use them.

“Dangerous fireworks” are everything else. Think firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, and cherry bombs. These are completely illegal for regular people to possess. No exceptions. No “just this once.” If you own dangerous fireworks without a special permit, you’re breaking the law. And the penalties are harsh.

When Can You Actually Use Safe and Sane Fireworks?

Okay, so you bought legal fireworks with the right seal. Now when can you use them? Not whenever you want. California has specific windows.

You can only buy Safe and Sane fireworks from June 28 through July 4. That’s a narrow window, honestly. Most stores only sell them for this one week per year.

You can only use Safe and Sane fireworks between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m., and only from June 28 to July 4. Outside those dates? They’re illegal to use. Even though you bought them legally.

Here’s where it gets tricky—your city or county might ban them completely. That’s right. Even though state law allows them, your local government can say no. You have to check your specific city and county rules. What’s legal in one city might be illegal in the next.

Local Laws That Override State Law

Stay with me here. California state law allows Safe and Sane fireworks, but individual cities and counties can do whatever they want. Many communities say no to all fireworks, period.

San Jose? All fireworks are banned, even the legal ones. Los Angeles? Many areas restrict fireworks heavily. Sonoma County? Generally banned. Sacramento? Legal during the window, but enforcement is aggressive. The rules change depending on where you live.

This is actually important. Just because you can buy them legally doesn’t mean you can use them legally in your town. Before you buy anything, check your local city or county website. Seriously. One quick search beats a $5,000 fine.

Federal Rules and BLM Land

Wait, it gets more complicated. The federal government has its own rules. On Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in California, all fireworks are banned year-round. This includes Safe and Sane fireworks. Even the legal ones. Even on July 4.

BLM land includes national forests, some parks, and public recreational areas. If you’re planning to celebrate on public land, check whether it’s BLM land first. If it is, no fireworks at all.

Federal law also prohibits transporting fireworks across state lines into California if they’re illegal here. If you drive from Nevada with fireworks that are illegal in California, you can be prosecuted under federal law. Penalty? Up to one year in prison and fines.

The Penalties Are Real and Growing

Okay, this is the part that gets serious. California takes firework violations seriously because fireworks start fires. And fires destroy communities.

Possession of dangerous fireworks ranges from $500 to $50,000 depending on how much you have. Using them illegally can mean jail time plus fines. The amount increases based on the weight of fireworks involved.

Some cities have escalating fines. In Sacramento, the first violation costs $1,000. The second violation is $2,500. Each additional violation within a year is $5,000. Plus, each firework counts separately. Light off ten illegal fireworks? That’s ten separate citations. Do the math on that one.

High-risk areas have even higher fines. Near schools, parks, or dry brush? Fines can hit $10,000. And yes, these fines are stacking up. Local enforcement is aggressive.

Your Property, Your Liability

Here’s something that surprises people: you’re liable for fireworks on your property, even if you didn’t light them. Not just emotionally liable—legally and financially liable.

If someone else sets off fireworks on your property without your permission, many jurisdictions still hold you responsible. This is called a “social host ordinance.” In Sacramento County, property owners can face fines of $1,000 or more if anyone uses fireworks on their property.

Parents, this applies to you. If your child uses illegal fireworks, you’re liable for fines and any property damage or injuries. Your homeowner’s insurance likely won’t cover fireworks damage either. You’d be paying out of pocket.

What Happens If Fireworks Start a Fire?

Pause. Read this carefully. If your firework causes a fire, the consequences go way beyond fireworks charges. You can face arson charges. You can be charged with “unlawfully causing a fire.” These are felonies.

Throw a cherry bomb into dry grass in July and it catches fire? That’s potentially felony charges and a criminal record. Wildfires have destroyed entire communities in California. The courts don’t take this lightly.

If fireworks cause property damage or injuries, the person who lit them is liable. That means lawsuits. Medical bills. Property repair. We’re talking serious money here, not just fines.

Reporting Illegal Fireworks

If you see someone using illegal fireworks, you can report it. But don’t call 9-1-1 unless there’s immediate danger (like an active fire or injury). For regular illegal firework reports, call your local non-emergency police line.

Different counties have different reporting systems. Some use 3-1-1. Others have online reporting. Check your local website for the exact method. Most places need either a witness description or photo/video evidence to cite someone.

Can You Give Fireworks to Someone Under 16?

No. It’s illegal to provide Safe and Sane fireworks to anyone under 16. Even though these are the “legal” fireworks. So even at a family gathering, you can’t hand them to your young relatives.

The age restriction exists because kids get injured by fireworks. Burns, amputations, lost eyesight. Tragic stuff. That’s why the law exists. Respect it.

Professional Fireworks Shows Are Legal

Here’s the good news: professional fireworks shows are totally legal. Licensed pyrotechnicians can use any kind of fireworks under permit. So you can enjoy a big, impressive display without any risk of prosecution.

Many cities host public fireworks shows on July 4 and other holidays. These are professional, safe, and spectacular. Honestly? Attending a professional show is a much better option than dealing with the legal risk of personal fireworks.

What About Possession of Small Sparklers?

Wondering about sparklers? It depends on their size. Legal sparklers must be 10 inches or less in length and a quarter-inch or less in diameter. They must have the State Fire Marshal seal.

Larger sparklers? Illegal. Even though they seem harmless, bigger sparklers are classified as dangerous fireworks. Stick to the small ones if you’re using legal fireworks at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy fireworks online and have them shipped to California?

Most online retailers won’t ship fireworks to California because it’s complicated and risky. Some might, but shipping takes 5-7 business days, and you need to make sure what you’re ordering is legal in California and your specific city. It’s way easier to just buy from a licensed stand during the legal window.

What if someone visits from out of state and brings fireworks with them?

If they bring fireworks that are illegal in California, those fireworks become illegal once they cross the state border. They can’t use them, and technically they’re breaking the law just by possessing them. Having them in the car is possession of illegal fireworks. Not worth it.

Can I use fireworks on private property if I own the land?

Nope. Even on your own property, you have to follow state and local laws. Private property doesn’t override California fireworks regulations. Your property line doesn’t create a fireworks-free zone.

What about HOAs and gated communities?

Yes. Private communities can have fireworks restrictions that are even stricter than state and local law. Check your HOA rules and CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions). They might ban fireworks completely.

Are there exemptions for cultural or religious celebrations?

Not really. California’s fireworks laws apply year-round and don’t have cultural or religious exemptions. Professional displays with permits are allowed, but personal use fireworks are restricted regardless of the occasion.

Safety Tips If You Use Legal Fireworks

If you’re in an area where Safe and Sane fireworks are legal and you choose to use them, here’s how to do it safely.

Keep a non-combustible bucket of water nearby. After using fireworks, soak them in water and leave them overnight before throwing them away. Never throw hot fireworks into trash cans. They can ignite the plastic and cause fires.

Use only legal fireworks with the State Fire Marshal seal. Use them only during legal hours (9 a.m. to 10 p.m., June 28-July 4). Don’t use them near dry grass, leaves, or other flammable materials.

Never use fireworks under a canopy, awning, covered patio, or trees. Never use them while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Have a garden hose connected and ready in case of fire.

Most importantly: if you’re not 100% sure about your local laws, don’t use them. Professional shows are free to attend and way safer for everyone.

Why Are California’s Laws So Strict?

You might be wondering why California goes so hard on fireworks. The answer: wildfires. Human activities cause about 95% of California’s wildfires. Fireworks are a major culprit.

Wildfires destroy homes. They kill people. They displace entire communities. California experiences fire season from June through October when vegetation is dry. A single careless firework can start a catastrophic fire that spreads for miles.

California’s laws aren’t meant to ruin your Fourth of July. They’re meant to prevent tragedy. When you see the penalties and restrictions, remember they exist because people and homes have been destroyed by fireworks-caused fires.

What Happens After July 4?

Good question. Once July 4 passes, Safe and Sane fireworks become illegal. Even the ones you bought legally. You can’t use them on July 5. You can’t use them on New Year’s Eve.

If you have leftover legal fireworks, soak them in water and dispose of them properly. Don’t save them for later or for another holiday. Once the legal window closes, all fireworks—including the safe ones—are illegal to use.

Bottom Line

Here’s what you absolutely need to remember: California’s fireworks laws are strict, local rules vary wildly, and the penalties are serious. Check your specific city and county rules before buying anything. If you have any doubt, skip the personal fireworks and enjoy a professional show instead.

Legal consequences are real. Fines can reach $50,000. Jail time is possible. Liability for property damage and injuries falls on you. Wildfire charges can be felonies.

Is setting off a firework really worth all that risk? Probably not. But if you do use legal fireworks, follow every rule exactly. It’s not worth finding out the hard way.

Frequently Asked Questions (Additional)

What’s the difference between a fine and jail time?

You can get both. Fines are money. Jail time is prison. A misdemeanor conviction can include both a fine and jail time, plus you’ll have a criminal record affecting employment and housing.

Can I appeal a fireworks citation?

Yes, you can contest it in traffic or criminal court, but you’d need legal representation. That’s expensive. It’s way cheaper to just follow the law and skip the fireworks.

Where can I find my specific city’s fireworks rules?

Search “[your city name] fireworks ordinance” or check your city or county website. Call your local non-emergency police line if you can’t find it online. They’ll tell you exactly what’s allowed.

What if I’m visiting California and didn’t know about the laws?

Being a visitor doesn’t exempt you from California laws. The rules apply to everyone. If you don’t know the laws, don’t use fireworks. Enjoy the professional displays instead.

Is there a permit I can get to use dangerous fireworks?

Only if you’re a licensed pyrotechnician operating a professional display. Regular people can’t get permits for dangerous fireworks. It’s not a thing.

Final Thoughts

Now you know the basics of California fireworks law. Seriously. Most people don’t, and some find out the expensive way. You’re ahead of the game just by reading this.

The key takeaway: check your specific local laws before buying anything. If you’re unsure, don’t use fireworks. Professional shows are the safest, smartest, and most spectacular option anyway.

California’s laws exist to protect people and prevent catastrophic fires. They’re serious. Respect them. Have a safe celebration, and stay out of legal trouble.

Fireworks Laws in California (2026): Your Complete Legal Guide