San Jacinto, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Chapter 8.57 is a flat ban, not a permit system for backyard use. Section 8.57.020(A) reaches possession, keeping, storing, using, shooting, discharging, setting off, igniting, exploding, manufacturing, selling, offering to sell, giving and transporting. It names three categories: fireworks, dangerous fireworks, and safe and sane fireworks. The third category is the one residents ask about, and it is covered by the same prohibition in the City of San Jacinto.

The definitions in § 8.57.010 are wide. "Fireworks" takes its meaning from California Health and Safety Code § 12511, and the chapter's own list includes torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, model rockets, rockets, Daygo bombs, sparklers, chasers, fountains, smoke sparks, aerial bombs and fireworks kits. "Safe and sane fireworks" means anything that is neither dangerous fireworks nor exempt fireworks.

Two uses stay lawful. Agricultural and wildlife fireworks, meaning devices built to prevent crop damage or keep animals and birds out of an area through sound or light, are excepted. So is a public display of fireworks under a permit obtained under Health and Safety Code §§ 12640 through 12654 and Chapter 8.16. Section 8.57.030 requires the permit application to go to the fire chief and the police chief not less than fourteen days before the display. It must include a diagram showing the discharge point, buildings, highways, the lines behind which the audience will be restrained, and nearby trees and overhead lines. A pyrotechnic operator must directly supervise the display, and the permittee must furnish a bond or certificate of insurance in an amount the two chiefs deem adequate.

Pyrotechnic special effects material needs its own permit from the fire chief and police chief, and a permit is granted only to a State Fire Marshal licensed pyrotechnic operator. Section 8.57.040 leaves untouched fireworks used by railroads and other transportation agencies for signals or illumination, blank cartridges for a show or theater or for signal or ceremonial purposes in athletics or sports, and use by military organizations.

Enforcement is assigned to the fire chief and the police chief and their authorized representatives (§ 8.57.050). They can seize, take and remove any fireworks and can charge the owner a reasonable amount covering the cost of transporting, storing, handling and disposing of what was seized.