Want to Report Illegal Fireworks? Here’s How

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!

The County has teamed up with cities, fire and law enforcement jurisdictions to share information on how to celebrate safely, how to spot a safe and sane firework, and how to report illegal fireworks usage.

Illegal Fireworks or Sales Will Result in Fines

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. Read more about the Social Host Ordinance.

“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.

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 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 used and sold from noon on June 28 through midnight on 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 them 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 Sale and Usage