Fireworks: Costa Mesa vs Irvine
How do fireworks rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Irvine, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Irvine.
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 →Irvine, CA
Orange County
All fireworks including Safe and Sane types are prohibited in Irvine under IMC Title 4, Division 4 (Fire). The city has a complete ban — no fireworks may be sold, possessed, or discharged within city limits.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - | Completely banned |
| Safe and Sane | - | Also banned in Irvine |
| Sales Permits | - | None issued |
| First Offense Fine | - | Starting at $1,000 |
| Enforcement | - | IPD and OCFA |
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.
Irvine FAQ
Are any fireworks legal in Irvine?
No. Irvine has a complete ban on all fireworks including Safe and Sane types. No fireworks may be sold, possessed, or used within city limits.
What about sparklers in Irvine?
All fireworks including sparklers are banned in Irvine. Attend city-sponsored professional displays instead.
Compare other topics
See how Costa Mesa and Irvine 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