Fireworks: Daly City vs San Mateo
How do fireworks rules compare between Daly City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
Daly City and San Mateo have similar restriction levels.
Daly City, CA
San Mateo County
Daly City prohibits all fireworks, including state-approved safe-and-sane fireworks. Municipal Code Chapter 8.24 (Fireworks Prohibited) bans their sale and discharge, and the city warns violators face fines up to $1,000 and possible county jail booking.
View full Daly City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
All fireworks are illegal in the City of San Mateo, including 'Safe and Sane' varieties. Violations are misdemeanors. San Mateo County also bans all fireworks with a $1,000 fine; spectator fines of $500 were added in 2023.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Daly City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Safe-and-sane fireworks | Illegal citywide | - |
| Code chapter | DCMC Chapter 8.24, Fireworks Prohibited | - |
| Fines | Up to $1,000, possible county jail | - |
| Reporting | Daly City Police, (650) 991-8119 | - |
| Public displays | City council permit only (sec. 8.24.080) | - |
| All Fireworks | - | BANNED — misdemeanor offense |
| Safe and Sane | - | BANNED |
| Fine | - | $1,000 (county); $500 for spectators (2023) |
| Liability | - | Parents/property owners liable for guests/minors |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Daly City FAQ
Are safe-and-sane fireworks legal in Daly City?
No. Although California's State Fireworks Law lets cities choose to allow safe-and-sane fireworks, Daly City has not done so. Municipal Code Chapter 8.24 is titled Fireworks Prohibited, and the North County Fire Authority confirms Daly City does not allow or permit the use of fireworks.
Can I buy fireworks in Pacifica and use them in Daly City?
No. Safe-and-sane fireworks sold legally at inspected booths in Pacifica may only be used in Pacifica. Bringing them into Daly City and discharging them violates Daly City Municipal Code Chapter 8.24 and can draw fines up to $1,000.
How do I report illegal fireworks in Daly City?
Call 911 for fires or injuries in progress. Otherwise contact the Daly City Police Department at (650) 991-8119 or use the Citizens Online Police Reporting System at www.dalycity.org/PoliceReport. The police department targets enforcement at known hot spots around July 4.
San Mateo FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in San Mateo?
All fireworks are illegal in the City of San Mateo, including 'Safe and Sane' varieties. Violations are misdemeanors. San Mateo County also bans all fireworks with a $1,000 fine; spectator fines of $500 were added in 2023.
When can I set off fireworks in San Mateo?
All Fireworks: BANNED — misdemeanor offense. Safe and Sane: BANNED. Fine: $1,000 (county); $500 for spectators (2023). Liability: Parents/property owners liable for guests/minors.
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