Fireworks: Costa Mesa vs Huntington Beach
How do fireworks rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Huntington Beach.
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 →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Huntington Beach bans all fireworks except for city-authorized professional displays. The city is known for its strict fireworks enforcement, particularly around July 4th on the beach and pier area.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Fine | Up to $1,000 for illegal use | - |
| Report | Dispatch — (714) 754-5252 | - |
| All Fireworks | - | Banned, including sparklers |
| State Context | - | HB opted out of Safe and Sane allowance |
| July 4th | - | Enhanced enforcement on beach/pier |
| Penalty | - | $1,000+ fines |
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.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Are fireworks legal in Huntington Beach?
No. Huntington Beach bans all fireworks except for city-authorized professional displays. The city is known for its strict enforcement, especially around July 4th.
What is the fine for fireworks in Huntington Beach?
Fireworks violations carry significant fines and possible criminal charges. The city actively enforces the ban with increased patrols during peak periods like Independence Day.
Where can I report illegal fireworks in Huntington Beach?
Call Huntington Beach PD at (714) 960-8811 to report illegal fireworks. During July 4th the city may have a dedicated fireworks complaint hotline.
Compare other topics
See how Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool