Fireworks: Costa Mesa vs Fullerton
How do fireworks rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Fullerton, CA?
Costa Mesa and Fullerton have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa permits safe and sane fireworks July 2-4 between 4 PM and 10 PM only. Sales run June 30 through July 4 at licensed locations. All illegal fireworks are prohibited year-round with zero-tolerance enforcement. Report violations at (714) 754-5252.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton permits safe and sane fireworks on July 4 from 10 AM to 10 PM only, with restrictions in designated Red Zone areas. All other fireworks are prohibited year-round under FMC Chapter 7.26. Increased fines apply under Ordinance No. 3129.
View full Fullerton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Fullerton |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Discharge | July 2–4, 4 PM – 10 PM | - |
| Sales Period | June 30 – July 4 at licensed sites | - |
| Illegal Types | Felony to sell, misdemeanor to use | Prohibited year-round |
| Fine | Up to $1,000 for illegal use | - |
| Report | Dispatch — (714) 754-5252 | - |
| Legal Fireworks | - | Safe and sane only, July 4 |
| Hours | - | 10 AM – 10 PM on July 4 |
| Red Zones | - | Fireworks prohibited in shaded areas |
| Code Section | - | FMC Chapter 7.26, Ord. 3129 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
When can I use fireworks in Costa Mesa?
Safe and sane fireworks may be discharged July 2 through July 4 between 4 PM and 10 PM only. Use outside these dates and times is a violation.
Where can I buy fireworks in Costa Mesa?
Safe and sane fireworks are sold at licensed locations cleared by the Fire Department from June 30 through July 4 during authorized sales hours.
What are the penalties for illegal fireworks?
Selling illegal fireworks is a felony. Possession or use is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 and/or jail time. Zero-tolerance enforcement applies.
Fullerton FAQ
Are fireworks legal in Fullerton?
Only safe and sane fireworks on July 4 from 10 AM to 10 PM. They are prohibited in Red Zone areas. All other fireworks are illegal year-round under FMC Chapter 7.26.
What are the Red Zones for fireworks in Fullerton?
Red Zones are designated areas, typically hillsides and wildland-urban interface areas, where even safe and sane fireworks are prohibited. Check the city's fireworks map.
What are the penalties for illegal fireworks?
Possession or use of illegal fireworks is a misdemeanor with increased fines under Ordinance No. 3129. The city enforces a zero-tolerance policy.
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