Summer is officially here which means increased outdoor activities, with the Fourth of July being no exception. The City of Santa Rosa Fire Department wants to remind residents that the possession, storage, sale, and use of all fireworks is illegal within the City of Santa Rosa. It is also illegal to purchase “Safe and Sane” fireworks from other cities and bring them into Santa Rosa.

The City will increase police and fire staffing to patrol and look for the use of fireworks. Violation of the City’s Fireworks ordinance will result in a citation, which includes fines up to $500.00. Violations of laws regarding dangerous fireworks will result in immediate enforcement action, which could include a citation with fines up to $1,000.00 or arrest depending on the violation. All fireworks are considered contraband and will be confiscated for disposal in accordance with guidelines established by the California State Fire Marshal’s Office.

“Following late season rains, a growth of now dry seasonal grasses and ongoing drought conditions, we urge Santa Rosans to make safe choices and NOT use fireworks when celebrating the Fourth of July this year,” said City of Santa Rosa Fire Chief Scott Westrope. “Our community has been through a lot since 2017. We are all accountable for doing our part to protect Santa Rosa from the threat of wildfire. Please keep this in mind as you make your plans for the upcoming holiday.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires. Approximately 30 percent of the City of Santa Rosa is located within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area, and the use of fireworks in these areas poses a significant threat to the community, especially given the early start to this fire season locally. 

For more information, visit srcity.org/FireworksBan.