Fireworks: San Francisco vs San Jose
How do fireworks rules compare between San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA?
San Francisco and San Jose 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 →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
All fireworks, including 'safe and sane' varieties, are illegal in San Jose under SJMC §10.17.100. Only professionally permitted displays are allowed.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Francisco | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Code sections | Police 4501, Fire 5601 | - |
| Minimum fine | $1,000 | - |
| Safe and Sane status | Banned in SF | - |
| Enforcer | SFFD and SFPD | - |
| All Fireworks | - | Illegal |
| Safe and Sane | - | Also banned |
| Code | - | SJMC §10.17.100 |
| Disposal | - | 33 fire stations accept |
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.
San Jose FAQ
Are consumer fireworks legal in San Jose?
All fireworks, including 'safe and sane' varieties, are illegal in San Jose under SJMC §10.17.100. Only professionally permitted displays are allowed.
When can I set off fireworks in San Jose?
All Fireworks: Illegal. Safe and Sane: Also banned. Code: SJMC §10.17.100. Disposal: 33 fire stations accept.
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