Fireworks: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do fireworks rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Ontario and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
All fireworks, including Safe and Sane, are banned in Ontario year round under Ontario Municipal Code and California Health and Safety Code 12500. Fines start at 1,000 dollars per violation.
View full Ontario rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
All fireworks, including Safe and Sane, are illegal inside the City of San Bernardino. Possession, sale, or discharge of any firework carries administrative fines starting at 1,250 dollars.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Local status | All fireworks banned year round | - |
| State law | CA H and S 12500 et seq. | - |
| First offense fine | 1,000 dollars minimum | - |
| Repeat offense | Up to 5,000 dollars | - |
| Reporting | Ontario Police 909-986-6711 | - |
| Citywide ban | - | All fireworks prohibited under SBMC Chapter 8.60 including Safe and Sane |
| First-offense fine | - | 1,250 dollars administrative citation |
| Repeat fines | - | Up to 3,000 dollars for third offense within 12 months |
| Social host rule | - | Property owner or tenant liable for guest-discharged fireworks |
| Only exception | - | Permitted professional pyrotechnic displays by licensed operators |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Are Safe and Sane fireworks legal in Ontario?
No. Unlike some Inland Empire cities, Ontario has not authorized Safe and Sane sales, so even fountains and sparklers are illegal within city limits.
Can I drive to a fireworks stand in another city and use them in Ontario?
No. Possession, transport, and use of any firework inside Ontario violates the city ordinance regardless of where it was purchased.
San Bernardino FAQ
Are Safe and Sane fireworks legal in San Bernardino?
No. The city bans all fireworks, and possession of even State Fire Marshal approved items triggers a 1,250-dollar citation.
Can I be fined if guests bring fireworks to my property?
Yes. The social host provision in SBMC 8.60 holds the property owner or tenant responsible for illegal fireworks used by guests.
Where can I legally watch fireworks near San Bernardino?
Professional displays at stadiums, parks, or venues that hold a city pyrotechnic permit are the only legal fireworks within city limits.
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