Bakersfield, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Unlike most of California, the City of Bakersfield authorizes the sale and use of State Fire Marshal approved 'Safe and Sane' fireworks (those bearing the official seal — fountains, ground spinners, sparklers) from June 28 through July 4 each year under Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 8.44. Temporary fireworks stands are licensed by the Bakersfield Fire Department through an annual lottery reserved for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Discharge is permitted only between noon on June 28 and midnight on July 4, and only on private property with the owner's permission or at approved public locations — never on streets, sidewalks, parks, school grounds, or in vehicles. All aerial fireworks, firecrackers, M-80s, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and any device not bearing the California State Fire Marshal seal are classified as 'dangerous fireworks' under California Health and Safety Code §12500 and are banned at all times, including during the legal window. Kern County's unincorporated areas impose even stricter rules and ban all fireworks including Safe and Sane. Under California Health and Safety Code §12557 and BMC 8.44, possession or use of dangerous fireworks carries an administrative fine of $1,000 to $5,000 per violation on top of any criminal charges, and the property owner can be held liable. The Bakersfield Fire Department runs enhanced enforcement and an online tip line from mid-June through July 5.