Imperial County, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Zones allowed
- A-2, A-2-R, A-3 only
- Minimum parcel size
- 5 acres
- School/hospital distance
- 1 mile minimum
- Perimeter fence
- 6 feet minimum
- Permit required
- Conditional use permit
Summary
Imperial County allows commercial and agricultural fireworks storage and assembly only in A-2, A-2-R and A-3 zones with a conditional use permit, tight acreage, distance and fencing standards.
The storage and assembly of commercial and agricultural fireworks, black powder and explosives excluding military munitions and industrial explosives, in the A-2, A-2-R and A-3 zones, with an approved conditional use permit, for non-retail purposes. Proposal must meet the following criteria: A.Parcel must be at least five acres or more in size. B.Project site must be located no less than one mile from any school, hospital or other similar institution and any area zoned or planned for residential uses.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 62 - 9-25).
Full Breakdown
Imperial County Code § 90501.17 permits storage and assembly of commercial and agricultural fireworks, black powder and explosives (excluding military munitions) only in the A-2, A-2-R and A-3 agricultural zones, and only for non-retail purposes under an approved conditional use permit. The parcel must be at least five acres, sited at least one mile from any school, hospital or residentially zoned area, with all structures at least 200 feet from a public road or occupied structure. The site must be fully fenced to six feet, and the operator must hold a valid state or federal pyrotechnics license.
Violations & Fines
Storing or assembling commercial/agricultural fireworks or explosives in the A-2, A-2-R or A-3 zones without an approved conditional use permit, the required acreage, distances or licensing violates the zoning code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I store fireworks on residential property in Imperial County?
Does this cover consumer 'safe and sane' fireworks?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Imperial County
How Imperial County compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·California rules heatmap·Compare Imperial County to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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