San Diego, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Consumer Fireworks
- All types banned
- Sparklers
- Banned
- Professional Shows
- Permit required
- Penalty
- Up to $1,000 fine
- Authority
- CA H&S Code 12689 + SDMC
Summary
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 proposes local amendments to the Municipal Code necessary to implement the 2025 California Fire Code (CFC) and California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (CWUIC) which will be effective January 1, 2026. Local amendments are effective after approval by the City Council and final passage of ordinances necessary to codify updates to the Municipal Code. The City's Fire Code Regulations are incorporated in the San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5, Article 11, Division 1-83. The Wildland-Urban Interface Regulations will be incorporated in the San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 5, Article 12, Division 1-6. The proposed code amendments are necessary to provide consistency and compatibility with the 2025 edition of the state code as well as necessary changes in response to new legislation.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Fines
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any fireworks legal in San Diego?
What is the penalty for fireworks in San Diego?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
How San Diego compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Fireworks in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle fireworks.