Del Norte County, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

California's State Fireworks Law (Health & Safety Code Sections 12500-12728) classifies fireworks as 'dangerous' (skyrockets, firecrackers, mortars, M-80s, anything that flies or explodes) or 'Safe and Sane' (fountains, ground spinners, cones bearing the State Fire Marshal seal). Dangerous fireworks are illegal everywhere in California unless used by a licensed pyrotechnician. 'Safe and Sane' fireworks may only be sold or used where a local jurisdiction allows them. Following the July 4, 2024 illegal-fireworks explosion at South Beach that critically injured a four-year-old child and 14 others, the Del Norte County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on October 22, 2024 and unanimously adopted the county's first Fireworks Ordinance, effective roughly 30 days later. The ordinance establishes an administrative-citation process so the County can directly enforce California's ban on dangerous fireworks. It also bans ALL fireworks — including 'Safe and Sane' — within Del Norte County campgrounds and parks. Public displays still require a California State Fire Marshal pyrotechnic-operator license. Residents should confirm current rules with County Code Enforcement, because much of unincorporated Del Norte is high wildfire-risk redwood and Smith River canyon terrain.