On Wednesday the Cal-FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal seized over 100,000 pounds of illegal fireworks that were discovered in Los Angeles County.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal responded to a claim of a current fireworks importer/exporter licensee with Cal-FIRE not following laws and regulations related to requirements of their license.
“As we approach the 4th of July and a typical increase in usage of illegal fireworks, this seizure should be a reminder of our zero tolerance to illegal fireworks in California,” said California State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant.
Since January 2025, California has seen over 4 million dollars in property loss from fireworks-caused fires. Cal-FIRE is reminding everyone that it is illegal to sell, transport, or use in California fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal, and to possess or use fireworks in a community where they are not permitted.
Violations of these limitations are subject to fines up to $50,000, and up to one year in jail.
California has zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include:
- Sky rockets
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Firecrackers
- Other fireworks that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner
Fireworks are illegal in parts of California due to the significant risk they pose, as they cause severe injuries and millions of dollars in property damage each year. Large grass crops and dry vegetation increase the threat of devastating fires throughout all of California.
