Sacramento, CA…CAL FIRE is reminding everyone that it is illegal to sell, transport, or use fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal, as well as possess or use fireworks in a community where they are not permitted. If convicted, a violator could be fined up to $50,000, as well as be sent to jail for up to one year.

Over the past few months CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal’s specialized Arson and Bomb Investigators have been providing intelligence and support to local and federal illegal fireworks enforcement efforts.

Illegal fireworks include:

Skyrockets
Bottle rockets
Roman candles
Aerial shells
Firecrackers
Sparklers
Other fireworks that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner.

“Our Arson and Bomb Investigators have been busy assisting with numerous illegal fireworks enforcement operations and as a result, along with our local fire and law enforcement partners, have successfully seized over 122,000 pounds of illegal fireworks from all over California since July 2023,” said State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant. “We have a zero tolerance toward the use, transportation, and possession of illegal fireworks. Even ‘Safe and Sane’ fireworks are banned in many communities and bring large fines for their illegal use.”

“Vegetation and especially grasses at lower elevations are dry across the state and we are already seeing a more intense fire season as a result,” said Chief Joe Tyler, CAL FIRE Director and Fire Chief. “As the conditions dry and warm in the coming weeks, these sources of fuel for wildfires will become more susceptible to burning. Fire conditions are elevated, and the 4th of July, along with the use of fireworks, only increases the risk for wildfires.”

As we gather to celebrate the Fourth of July, make sure your festivities are both enjoyable and safe. Check your local laws and ordinances to find out if fireworks are illegal where you live, or if certain “Safe and Sane” fireworks are permitted. In certain areas of California, all fireworks are illegal.

Prevent fires and injuries caused by fireworks this Fourth of July. Since 2013, in the State of California, there has been over 22,000 acres burned with fireworks being the ignition source 62 million dollars in property and content loss.

To learn more about fireworks safety, visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org/more/fireworks-safety/

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