Santa Monica, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)
Key Facts
- Safe-and-Sane fireworks
- Prohibited (explicitly included in ban)
- Exception 1
- Aerial displays approved by City Council
- Exception 2
- Pyrotechnic effects for film, TV, theatrical productions
- Exception 3
- Use by state or federal authorities under state/federal law
- Seizure authority
- Fire Marshal or any peace officer
Summary
All fireworks are illegal in Santa Monica, including California State Fire Marshal-approved Safe and Sane fireworks. The only exceptions are City Council-approved aerial public displays, pyrotechnic effects for film and theatrical productions, and use by state or federal authorities.
5601.1.3 Fireworks. All fireworks shall be illegal in the City of Santa Monica including California State Fire Marshal "Safe and Sane" fireworks. No person shall possess, transport, sell, or offer for sale any such fireworks. Exception:
1. Aerial public fireworks display as approved by City Council.
2. The use of fireworks for pyrotechnics special effects in motion picture, television, theatrical or group entertainment productions as authorized by State law.
3. Any use or transportation of fireworks by state or federal authorities pursuant to state or federal law.
Full Breakdown
No person may possess, transport, sell, or offer for sale any fireworks within Santa Monica. This prohibition explicitly covers Safe and Sane fireworks that are legal in other California cities. Three narrow exceptions exist: (1) aerial public fireworks displays approved in advance by City Council; (2) pyrotechnic special effects used in motion picture, television, theatrical, or group entertainment productions under state law authorization; (3) fireworks used or transported by state or federal authorities pursuant to law. Violations can result in immediate seizure and disposal of the fireworks at the owner's expense.
Violations & Fines
The Fire Marshal, any designee, or any peace officer may remove, destroy, or otherwise dispose of fireworks possessed, stored, sold, or used in violation. All costs of seizure and disposal fall on the owner. Violations are also subject to misdemeanor prosecution under general Municipal Code enforcement provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Safe and Sane fireworks in Santa Monica on the Fourth of July?
What happens if I am caught with fireworks?
Can a film production use pyrotechnics in Santa Monica?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
How Santa Monica compares: Cities Where Fireworks Are Banned or Heavily Restricted·California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California fire regulations overview
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Fireworks in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle fireworks.