All consumer fireworks are illegal in the City of San Diego under California Health & Safety Code 12689 and SDMC fire regulations. This includes sparklers, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles. Only professionally permitted displays are allowed.
The City of San Diego bans all consumer fireworks including so-called 'safe and sane' fireworks. Under California Health & Safety Code Section 12689 and the San Diego Fire Code, possession, sale, and use of any fireworks by individuals is prohibited within city limits. This includes sparklers, firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, sky lanterns, and all other consumer fireworks. Professional fireworks displays require a permit from the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and must be conducted by licensed pyrotechnicians. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in hazardous fire areas. The ban is actively enforced around July 4th and New Year's Eve with enhanced patrols. San Diego Police and Fire departments conduct joint enforcement operations.
Misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in county jail. Fireworks causing a fire may result in felony arson charges and liability for suppression costs and property damage.
San Diego, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle fireworks.
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