Fireworks: Costa Mesa vs Midway City
How do fireworks rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Midway City, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
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 →Midway City, CA
Orange County
All fireworks, including 'safe and sane' varieties, are illegal in unincorporated Orange County. The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) enforces a complete ban. Possession of dangerous fireworks is a misdemeanor under California Health and Safety Code Section 12677 with fines up to $1,000.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Status | - | All fireworks banned |
| State Law | - | HSC §12677, §12689 |
| Dangerous Fireworks Fine | - | $500–$1,000 |
| Enforcement | - | OCFA / OC Sheriff |
| High-Risk Areas | - | Canyon communities |
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.
Midway City FAQ
Are any fireworks legal in unincorporated Orange County?
No. All fireworks including safe and sane varieties are banned in unincorporated Orange County. Some incorporated cities within the county do allow safe and sane fireworks, but unincorporated areas under OCFA jurisdiction do not.
What are the penalties for fireworks in unincorporated Orange County?
Possession of dangerous fireworks is a misdemeanor with fines of $500 to $1,000 and/or up to one year in county jail under California HSC Section 12677. If fireworks cause a fire, felony charges may apply.
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