Fresno, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Fresno Municipal Code section 10-55602
- Legal hours
- 7 a.m.-10 p.m. year-round; to midnight June 28-July 6
- Requirement
- Must bear State Fire Marshal (SFM) seal
- First-offense fine
- $2,000 + $250 admin fee
Summary
Unlike most California cities, Fresno permits state-approved 'Safe and Sane' fireworks bearing the State Fire Marshal seal. They may be used year-round between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., with extended hours to midnight from June 28 through July 6. All other (dangerous) fireworks are illegal and carry escalating administrative fines starting at $2,000.
Safe and Sane fireworks, in the City of Fresno, 365 days a year between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. except for period of June 28th to July 6th when use and discharge will be allowed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m. ... Only purchase and use 'Safe and Sane' fireworks. If the item does not have this State of California Fire Marshal (SFM) seal, it is considered illegal. ... The penalties are: a fine of $2,000.00 for the first violation, $3,000.00 for the second violation within a rolling 12 month period, and $5,000.00 for the third or subsequent violation within a rolling 12 month period. Each fine is accompanied by an administrative fee of $250.00.
Full Breakdown
Fresno is one of the relatively few California jurisdictions that permits 'Safe and Sane' fireworks, governed by Fresno Municipal Code section 10-55602 (Fireworks Ordinance). California Health & Safety Code section 12541 expressly preserves this local control, providing that nothing in the State Fireworks Law authorizes fireworks use 'in any city, county, or city and county in which the sale, use, or discharge is otherwise prohibited or regulated by law or ordinance.' Only fireworks bearing the California State Fire Marshal (SFM) seal are legal - the SFM tests and approves 'safe and sane' fireworks under H&S Code section 12529. Sale is limited to permitted nonprofit stands operating from noon June 28 to noon July 6. Anything without the SFM seal (firecrackers, bottle rockets, sky rockets, M-80s) is a 'dangerous firework' and illegal to possess, sell or discharge in Fresno.
Violations & Fines
Per the City of Fresno, illegal fireworks penalties are $2,000 for the first violation, $3,000 for a second within a rolling 12-month period, and $5,000 for a third or subsequent, each plus a $250 administrative fee. Dangerous fireworks may also be charged as a misdemeanor under state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fireworks legal in Fresno?
When can I use fireworks in Fresno?
What is the fine for illegal fireworks in Fresno?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno
How Fresno compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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Fireworks in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fresno County handle fireworks.