Effective June 19, 2025, an amended SLO County fireworks ordinance (Title 6, Chapter 6.32) bans all unpermitted fireworks — including 'safe and sane' devices — throughout the unincorporated county, with administrative fines up to $1,000 per discharge and criminal penalties for dangerous fireworks.
Chapter 6.32 of the SLO County Code regulates fireworks. Section 6.32.015 historically reserved authority to community services and fire districts to permit 'safe and sane' fireworks within their boundaries. In May 2025 the Board of Supervisors adopted an amended ordinance — effective June 19, 2025 — that prohibits 'all unpermitted fireworks' in unincorporated areas including Oceano, Cayucos, Nipomo, Avila Beach, Shandon, Creston and Santa Margarita. Under the amended chapter, administrative fines run up to $1,000 per violation, each discharge is a separate offense, and property owners and parents/guardians of minor offenders are strictly liable. Possession or use of 'dangerous' (non-safe-and-sane) fireworks remains a misdemeanor under California Health & Safety Code § 12700 et seq., carrying criminal fines starting at $2,000, with felony exposure for possession of more than 500 pounds. Following Oceano CSD's withdrawal from fire service, safe-and-sane retail fireworks now remain lawful only in the Templeton CSD, San Miguel CSD, and the cities of Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach.
Administrative citation up to $1,000 per discharge; misdemeanor citation with a $2,000 fine for dangerous fireworks; felony exposure for >500 lbs; cost-recovery for fire, law enforcement and medical response; seizure of fireworks with disposal costs billed back; fines must be paid before any appeal.
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