Fireworks: Los Angeles vs San Francisco
How do fireworks rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA?
Los Angeles and San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
ALL fireworks are illegal in the City of Los Angeles under LAMC §57.5608.1.2. Includes sparklers and 'Safe and Sane' devices. Fines up to $1,000; felony charges possible for large quantities.
View full Los Angeles rules →San Francisco, CA
San Francisco County
San Francisco Police Code Article 9 and the SF Fire Code prohibit the sale, possession, and discharge of all fireworks within city limits, including state-approved Safe and Sane fireworks legal elsewhere in California.
View full San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Code | LAMC §57.5608.1.2 | - |
| All Fireworks | Banned — including sparklers & Safe and Sane | - |
| City Fine | Up to $1,000 + up to 1 year jail | - |
| Social Host | $1,000/$2,000/$3,000 escalating citations | - |
| Felony | Possible for 25+ lbs (AB 1403, 2024) | - |
| Code sections | - | Police 4501, Fire 5601 |
| Minimum fine | - | $1,000 |
| Safe and Sane status | - | Banned in SF |
| Enforcer | - | SFFD and SFPD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in los Angeles?
ALL fireworks are illegal in the City of Los Angeles under LAMC §57.5608.1.2. Includes sparklers and 'Safe and Sane' devices. Fines up to $1,000; felony charges possible for large quantities.
When can I set off fireworks in los Angeles?
Code: LAMC §57.5608.1.2. All Fireworks: Banned — including sparklers & Safe and Sane. City Fine: Up to $1,000 + up to 1 year jail. Social Host: $1,000/$2,000/$3,000 escalating citations.
San Francisco FAQ
Are sparklers legal in SF?
No. Sparklers are classified as fireworks under California Health and Safety Code 12500 and are banned citywide alongside all other consumer fireworks under SF Police Code 4501 and Fire Code 5601.
How do I report illegal fireworks?
Call SFFD non-emergency at 415-558-3300 or 911 for active discharges. Complaints can also be filed via 311 or sf.gov for follow-up by Fire Prevention investigators.
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