California: Are fireworks legal?
California allows only state-approved 'safe and sane' fireworks; rockets, Roman candles, firecrackers and other aerial or exploding items are illegal without a permit.
Safe and sane fireworks are ground items tested and approved by the State Fire Marshal. Firecrackers, skyrockets, Roman candles and anything that rises into the air are classed as 'dangerous fireworks,' which require a permit that ordinary consumers don't get. Retail sales run only from noon June 28 to noon July 6, and buyers must be at least 16. Many cities and counties ban even safe and sane fireworks, so local rules matter a great deal.
Conditions
- Only State Fire Marshal-approved safe and sane fireworks
- Retail sales from noon June 28 to noon July 6
- Buyer must be 16 or older
- City and county ordinances may ban sale and use
What the law says
"Dangerous fireworks" includes all of the following: ... (b) Firecrackers. (c) Skyrockets and rockets, including all devices which employ any combustible or explosive material and which rise in the air during discharge. (d) Roman candles, including all devices which discharge balls of fire into the air. ... It is unlawful for any person to possess dangerous fireworks without holding a valid permit.
Sources
- Cal. Health and Safety Code 12505 (dangerous fireworks), FindLaw Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com
- Cal. Health and Safety Code 12677 (permit required to possess dangerous fireworks), FindLaw Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com
- Cal. Health and Safety Code 12529 (safe and sane fireworks), FindLaw Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com
- Cal. Health and Safety Code 12599 (retail sale period), FindLaw Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com
- Cal. Health and Safety Code 12689 (no sales to under 16), FindLaw Mirror of official text · codes.findlaw.com
Confirm with the state
- Agency
- California Office of the State Fire Marshal (CAL FIRE)
- Website
- osfm.fire.ca.gov
How bordering states compare
- Arizona Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyArizona allows sparklers, fountains and other ground devices, but bans aerial and exploding fireworks such as firecrackers, bottle rockets and Roman candles.
- Nevada UnclearNevada has no statewide list of allowed consumer fireworks, so counties and cities decide and rules vary widely.
- Oregon Sparklers and ground fireworks onlyOregon allows only ground fireworks like fountains and sparklers; anything that flies, explodes or travels over 12 feet needs a permit.
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