Lake County, CA Fire Regulations: Fireworks (2026)

Lake County's government states that 'Safe & Sane' fireworks are legal only inside the City of Lakeport. In the unincorporated areas of the county, and in the City of Clearlake, it is 'otherwise unlawful... for any person to possess, use, sell or explode any fireworks,' except for organized public displays operated under permit. The county emphasizes that possession and use of fireworks—including 'Safe and Sane'-labeled items—'is illegal in all areas of Lake County outside the City Limits of Lakeport.' This near-total ban reflects the county's severe wildfire history, including the 2015 Valley Fire and 2018 Mendocino Complex/Ranch Fire. Beyond local rules, California Health and Safety Code Division 11 (the State Fireworks Law) governs all fireworks statewide. 'Dangerous fireworks' (rockets, firecrackers, larger sparklers, and anything not state-approved as 'Safe and Sane') are illegal throughout California without a state display license. Under California HSC section 12677, violations are misdemeanors carrying a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to one year in county jail, or both; large-quantity possession can be charged as a felony. Professional displays require a California State Fire Marshal license and a local permit.