Santa Cruz County, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Santa Cruz County prohibits fireworks of any kind in unincorporated areas and on all beaches from the North Coast to South County. Unlike some California cities that allow state-approved 'Safe and Sane' fireworks (HSC 12500+ regulates what is legal statewide), the county allows none in unincorporated territory. The prohibition is administered under the county's fire-code framework (Chapter 7.92 of the Santa Cruz County Code adopts and amends the California Fire Code, which incorporates the state's explosives and fireworks provisions). County messaging emphasizes the extreme wildfire danger in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex destroyed roughly 1,490 structures, as a key reason for the total ban. During the Fourth of July period the Sheriff's Office increases patrols, especially in coastal neighborhoods, and warns that fireworks violations, public alcohol consumption, open containers, and excessive noise can each draw fines up to $1,000. Residents are urged to leave displays to licensed professionals. If you see what appears to be a homemade explosive device, the county advises calling 911. Because penalties and enforcement intensify in fire season, possessing or using any consumer fireworks in the unincorporated county is never legally safe.