Oakland, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Oakland prohibits all consumer fireworks within city limits. Unlike some California jurisdictions that allow state-approved Safe and Sane fireworks during limited windows, Oakland bans every category outright, including sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, and any aerial or exploding devices. Only professional pyrotechnic displays by licensed operators with a City permit and Fire Marshal approval are allowed. The ordinance aligns with California Health and Safety Code Division 11 (State Fireworks Law) and local fire code amendments, which authorize cities to ban fireworks given elevated wildfire risk — a major concern for the Oakland Hills Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Enforcement is a joint effort between OFD and OPD, with saturation patrols around the Fourth of July. Oakland has adopted social host and property-owner liability provisions: the person who possesses, uses, or allows fireworks on property they control can be cited, with administrative fines commonly set at $1,000 for a first offense and escalating for repeat violations. Confiscation of devices is routine. Selling fireworks is a misdemeanor. Residents are urged to report illegal fireworks via the City's online reporting tool rather than calling 911, so dispatch remains free for emergencies. The ban exists because ignitions from illegal fireworks have repeatedly caused brush fires in the Hills and structure fires in dense neighborhoods.