The residents of Huntington Beach love the 4th of July holiday and the fireworks that go along with the celebrations. Huntington Beach allows the sale and use of Safe and Sane fireworks and has a spectacular public display off the iconic Huntington Beach Pier.
The Huntington Beach Fire Department encourages safe and legal fireworks use in the City limits, but there is a negative side to fireworks that can put a damper on an otherwise fun Independence Day celebration:
Fireworks spark fires. Each year, the Huntington Beach Fire Department responds to a large number of fires, usually confined in dumpsters or trash, but sometimes in dry brush or from illegal fireworks landing on roofs of homes.
Fireworks injure. In recent years, the HBFD has responded to burn injuries, eye injuries, and significant bodily injuries.
Fireworks frighten. Illegal fireworks, and the noise they create, also cause harm to pets and people suffering from PTSD.
For these reasons, the HBFD offers some practical information to help our residents enjoy fireworks legally in Huntington Beach while reducing the risk associated with their use.
What are Safe and Sane Fireworks?
Safe and Sane Fireworks are those fireworks that the State Fire Marshal has determined through testing and evaluation that meet the legal specifications, and do not meet the definition of “DANGEROUS” or otherwise exempt.
All Safe and Sane Fireworks will bear a seal Safe and Sane Registered Fireworks Seal (ca.gov).
Where can I purchase Safe and Sane Fireworks legally?
Safe and Sane Fireworks are sold in Huntington Beach at 15 permitted fireworks stands.
Click here for a list of organizations City of Huntington Beach, CA – Fireworks Information (huntingtonbeachca.gov)
Sales are allowed July 1, 2, 3 from Noon – 10PM and on Jul 4 from 10AM – 9PM.
When and where can I use Safe and Sane Fireworks?
- Discharge of Safe and Sane Fireworks are only allowed on July 4 from Noon – 10 p.m.
- Fireworks MAY NOT be discharged:
- On any beach, wetlands, or public parks
- All areas on the ocean side of Pacific Coast Highway (e.g. Sunset Beach)
- Within 10 ft of any residence, dwelling or other structure or oil wells
- Public Property, including public streets, highways and other publicly owned property, buildings or facilities (except residential sidewalks, alleys, and streets)
- Properties located in commercial and industrial/manufacturing districts
- Within 300 ft of a fireworks stand or within 100 ft of a gas station/flammable liquids
Residents may discharge fireworks on their residential street, however, to help keep Huntington Beach clean, please properly dispose of spent fireworks properly! Do not leave them in the streets.
What are Illegal fireworks?
Residents should know the law regarding illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include:
- Sky rockets
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Firecrackers
Basically, illegal fireworks are any firework that can explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner.
Illegal fireworks include those with a State Fire Marshal seal indicating “DANGEROUS” which are limited for use in California by licensed pyrotechnic operators. Illegal fireworks also include those that do not have a State Fire Marshal seal, such as homemade rockets or mortars.
Why are there so many illegal fireworks and what can I do about it?
Despite being illegal, illegal fireworks can be easily obtained and are frequently brought into City limits. Due to the volume of illegal firework activity, law enforcement has limited ability to make a difference.
DO NOT CALL 911 DISPATCH
If you see illegal use of fireworks, the following are available to you to report:
- MyHB App
- 714-536-LOUD. Fireworks lines (536-LOUD) are staffed on July 1, 2, and 3, from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. and July 4 from 2:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
It is important that you know exact address or location when reporting. Law enforcement cannot effectively respond to generalized locations, like a neighborhood or a cross street.
What are the penalties involved with illegal firework sales or use?
The HBPD and HBFD can issue firework citations that start at $500 for the first offence, and $1,000 for each subsequent offence.
What are recommended fireworks safety tips?
- Have a bucket of water and/or a hose nearby. Use the bucket to submerge any spent fireworks before disposal.
- Always have an adult present.
- Always read the directions.
- Light one firework at a time and back away after lighting.
The men and women of the HBFD thank the residents of Huntington Beach who enjoy Safe and Sane Fireworks, hope that everyone has a safe and fun 4th of July celebration.
