Fireworks: San Francisco vs Seattle
How do fireworks rules compare between San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA?
San Francisco and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
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 →Seattle, WA
King County
All consumer fireworks are banned in Seattle. Violations are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Ceremonial fireworks may be permitted via a Seattle Fire Department no-fee permit (SFD CAM 5033).
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Francisco | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code sections | Police 4501, Fire 5601 | - |
| Minimum fine | $1,000 | - |
| Safe and Sane status | Banned in SF | - |
| Enforcer | SFFD and SFPD | - |
| Status | - | ALL fireworks banned (including sparklers) |
| Penalty | - | Gross misdemeanor — up to $5,000 + 1 yr jail |
| Exception | - | Ceremonial permit via SFD (no fee) |
| Report | - | Non-emergency: (206) 625-5011 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Seattle FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in Seattle?
All consumer fireworks are banned in Seattle. Violations are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Ceremonial fireworks may be permitted via a Seattle Fire Department no-fee permit (SFD CAM 5033).
When can I set off fireworks in Seattle?
Status: ALL fireworks banned (including sparklers). Penalty: Gross misdemeanor — up to $5,000 + 1 yr jail. Exception: Ceremonial permit via SFD (no fee). Report: Non-emergency: (206) 625-5011.
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