Fireworks
Effective June 19, the ordinance introduces stricter penalties for the use of illegal fireworks and establishes new enforcement measures. The new ordinance includes the following:
To report the illegal use of fireworks, please call the Sheriff's non-emergency line at 805-781-4550.
Find more information here: San Luis Obispo County Enacts Stricter Fireworks Ordinance to Enhance Public Safety
- All unpermitted fireworks are prohibited in the county’s unincorporated areas: these include the communities of Oceano, Cayucos, Nipomo, Avila Beach, Shandon, Creston and Santa Margarita. Individual fire protection districts have their own ordinances, but most have similar bans.
- Fines up to $1,000 per violation will be issued for any illegal fireworks activity. Individuals who use or allow the use of illegal fireworks on their property, regardless of whether they personally ignite them are liable.
- Each discharge is a separate offense, meaning multiple fines can apply in one incident.
- Parents or guardians are strictly liable for any fireworks violations committed by minors under their care.
- Violators may also be charged for response costs, including firefighting, law enforcement, and medical response services.
- Fireworks may be seized, and responsible parties may be billed for disposal.
- Criminal penalties may also apply, including fines starting at $2,000 for possession or use of dangerous (those not labeled “safe and sane”) fireworks, and felony charges for possessing more than 500 pounds of fireworks.
- A formal appeals process is in place, but fines must be paid in advance.
To report the illegal use of fireworks, please call the Sheriff's non-emergency line at 805-781-4550.
Find more information here: San Luis Obispo County Enacts Stricter Fireworks Ordinance to Enhance Public Safety
There are plenty of ways that you can celebrate this 4th of July safely and avoid fines. Here are links to the many events happening across the central coast.