With Independence Day coming up, it’s always a good idea to know the risks of fireworks, only use legal fireworks and stay safe when using them. If you see or suspect illegal firework usage, please report it! When it comes to fireworks, we want to keep it safe and keep it legal!
The Use or Sale of Illegal Fireworks Will Result in Fines
In 2022, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors adopted a social host ordinance that levies fines, starting at $1,000, against property owners that either use or allow the use of illegal fireworks on their property, in addition to fines for use in places like the American River Parkway.
“Host,” as it relates to this ordinance, means a person who knowingly permits or allows fireworks to be lit, exploded or sold on private property owned or controlled by the person.
If the illegal fireworks are being set off from your property, you are responsible for the fines.
Penalties for violations are as follows:
- $1,000 for the first violation
- $2,500 for the second violation within one year of the first violation
- $5,000 for each additional violation within one year of the first violation
- $10,000 for each violation that occurs at schools, parks and within the American River Parkway
When to call 9-1-1
Calls for service throughout the County increase dramatically on July 4, and emergency response resources are stretched extremely thin.
During the holiday weekend, please use 9-1-1 for emergencies only — like an active fire or injury or immediate threat to persons or property. Each jurisdiction has provided an alternative method to report illegal fireworks sales and usage.
Know the Risks
- The unsafe use of fireworks can cause severe burns, amputations, blinding and even death.
- Damaging fires may occur when children use fireworks unsupervised by adults.
- Parents are responsible for any property damage or injuries caused by all fireworks.
Keep it Legal
- All legal fireworks in California are called Safe and Sane Fireworks and must bear the State Fire Marshal’s seal.
- Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be sold from noon on June 28 through 9 p.m. on July 4.
- Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be used between 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. from June 28 to July 4.
- Any firework that goes up in the air or explodes is illegal and dangerous.
Keep It Safe
- Always have a non-combustible bucket of water to dispose of fireworks and leave in the water overnight before disposing.
- Always have an available hose connected to water in case of fire.
- Do not use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
- Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio or under a tree or bushes.
How to Report Illegal Fireworks Sale and Usage
- Unincorporated County of Sacramento: 916-874-5115 or reportfireworks@saccounty.gov
- City of Sacramento: 916-808-FIRE or the Sacramento Fire Department App
- Folsom: fireworks@folsom.ca.us or seeclickfix.com/folsom
- Elk Grove: 916-714-5115 or fireworks@elkgrovepd.org
- Rancho Cordova: 916-362-5115 or the Rancho Cordova Connect App
- Citrus Heights: 916-727-5500 or seeclickfix.com
- Galt: 209-366-7000
Aren’t sure who or how to report? Call 3-1-1 to be connected to the right place.
Together, we can ensure that Independence Day celebrations are fun, safe and do not cause undue injury or fire in our communities.
