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

The sale, possession, and use of all fireworks have been illegal in Santa Clara County since 1978, and the ban includes state-approved 'safe and sane' fireworks, not just dangerous ones. The Santa Clara County Fire Department confirms that 'all fireworks, even state approved safe and sane fireworks are ILLEGAL in Santa Clara County.' Only professional public displays operated under a permit issued by the county fire marshal are allowed. In June 2015 the Board of Supervisors adopted a 'social host' fireworks ordinance that makes property owners responsible for illegal fireworks set off on their property, similar to social-host laws for underage drinking; owners who are not present can receive a warning letter and be cited for repeat violations. Administrative fines are $350 for a first violation, $700 for a second, and $1,000 for a third. If discharging fireworks causes injury or property damage, it can be charged as a misdemeanor punishable by a $1,000 fine and/or six months in jail. Separately, California Health & Safety Code sections 12500 through 12728 prohibit dangerous fireworks statewide, and possession of dangerous fireworks without a valid permit is unlawful under section 12677. These rules apply countywide in unincorporated areas given the high wildfire risk in the Santa Cruz Mountains and Diablo Range foothills.