Novato, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Section 14-3.1 of the Novato Municipal Code prohibits four acts within the city: storing, manufacturing, selling and discharging. The ban reaches fireworks, firecrackers, torpedoes and any similar agency that creates noise or fire, so the test is the noise or fire the device produces, not its label. The sole printed exception is a public display of fireworks, which can be given with the written consent of the city council. Consent is a council action, not a staff counter permit.

Section 14-3.2 makes a violation a misdemeanor and points to the penalty in Chapter I, § 1-5. Under § 1-5.1, where no specific penalty is provided, a violation is punished by a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both, although the enforcing authority can charge it as an infraction instead. An infraction carries a fine not exceeding $100 for a first violation, $200 for a second within one year and $500 for any later violation within one year. Under § 1-5.2, every day a violation continues is a separate offense.

The park chapter adds layers for fireworks and flame at city parks. A park permit is required for any activity with an open flame or a flame within any apparatus, including a fire pit or barbeque (§ 10-4). The director can deny that permit during a month of high or very high fire risk, or any time a public agency with fire authority warns of increased fire risk (§ 10-7). Pyrotechnical uses and fireworks shows are on the list of activities that need insurance in the type and amount the city manager or designee specifies, with the certificate filed no less than five business days before the event (§ 10-14). Section 10-28 bars fires in any open space.