As temperatures rise and fire danger increases across the region, Sacramento County and local law enforcement agencies are reminding residents that dangerous fireworks pose a serious threat to neighborhoods, schools, parks, open spaces and the American River Parkway.
To help protect the community, enforcement efforts will be increased throughout the Fourth of July holiday period.
"Illegal fireworks are not a harmless tradition,” said Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper. “They are dangerous and can have devastating consequences for our community. Increased enforcement efforts will be underway throughout the Fourth of July holiday, and those who choose to ignore the law will face the consequences."
Reporting is Confidential
County officials emphasize that confidential reports from residents play a critical role in helping enforcement personnel identify and address dangerous fireworks activity before it leads to injuries, property damage or wildfires.
“When it comes to protecting your community, your voice matters,” said Mike Sanchez, Chief, Sacramento County Code Enforcement. “Reporting parties’ identification are kept confidential, and the more information we receive, the likelier it is we’ll be able to cite illegal usage.”
To improve the likelihood of successful enforcement action, Sacramento County Code Enforcement recommends providing:
- A video or photograph of the illegal fireworks activity
- Eyewitness statements
- The specific address where the activity occurred
Reporting Numbers by Area
Unincorporated Sacramento County: 916-874-5115, fireworks@sacsheriff.com, or the 311 Connect App
City of Sacramento: 916-808-FIRE or the Sacramento Fire Department App
Folsom: 916-461-6100, option 1, or fireworks@folsom.ca.us
Elk Grove: 916-714-5115
Rancho Cordova: 916-362-5115 or the Rancho Cordova Connect App
Citrus Heights: 916-727-5500 or SeeClickFix.com
Galt: 209-366-7000
Not sure who to call? Dial 3-1-1 or use the 311 Connect App to report illegal fireworks activity.
Increased Enforcement and Penalties
In the unincorporated area of Sacramento County, individuals who use illegal fireworks may face substantial administrative fines:
Fine Schedule
- $1,000 each device
- $2,500 for each additional device within one year of the first violation
- $5,000 for each additional device within one year of the first violation
- $10,000 when used at schools, parks or within the American River Parkway
Know the Law: Safe and Sane Fireworks
In California, legal consumer fireworks are known as Safe and Sane Fireworks and must display the California State Fire Marshal's seal.
Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be sold from:
- Noon on June 28 through 9 p.m. on July 4
Legal Use Dates and Times
Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be used:
- June 28 through July 4
- Between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Use of fireworks outside these dates and times may result in enforcement action and penalties listed above.
Fireworks Safety Tips
"Every year, firefighters respond to fires and injuries caused by illegal fireworks,” said Diana Freeman, Deputy Fire Marshal, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire. “These incidents are entirely preventable. Our goal is simple: keep families safe, protect property and prevent fires from threatening our community. We are asking residents to celebrate responsibly, follow the law and help us prevent fires before they start.”
Even when using legal Safe and Sane Fireworks, residents should take precautions to prevent injuries and fires:
- Always keep a non-combustible bucket of water nearby
- Soak used fireworks overnight before disposal
- Keep a hose connected to water readily available
- Never use fireworks near dry grass or flammable materials
- Do not use fireworks under canopies, covered patios, balconies, trees or bushes
Help Keep Sacramento County Safe
With dry conditions and elevated fire risk throughout the region, residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and report dangerous fireworks activity when they see it.