California Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely, warning that illegal fireworks will not be tolerated after more than 600,000 pounds of illegal explosives have been seized so far this year.

“We all must do our part to keep Fourth of July fun and safe,” Newsom said in a news release. “I ask all Californians to use common sense and practice safety when lighting fireworks to celebrate. Our message is clear: illegal fireworks won’t be tolerated, and you will be prosecuted. They run the risk of starting dangerous fires in the peak of our fire season.”

The sale, transport, or use of fireworks without the “Office of the State Fire Marshal Safe and Sane” seal is illegal in California. Violators can face fines up to $50,000 and up to one year in jail, the release said.

CalFire’s Office of the State Fire Marshal and its Arson and Bomb Investigators have led enforcement efforts with local and federal agencies. Last year, 288,000 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized. The 10-year annual average is about 240,000 pounds.

“Already this year our Arson and Bomb Investigators, along with our partners, have successfully seized over 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks from all over California,” said State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant. “Our recent enforcement efforts clearly demonstrate our zero tolerance toward the use, transportation, and possession of illegal fireworks.”

Since 2024, fireworks have sparked 1,230 fires across California, causing more than $35 million in property damage. Illegal fireworks include skyrockets, bottle rockets, Roman candles, aerial shells, firecrackers, sparklers, and other devices that explode, shoot into the air, or move unpredictably.

Officials urge Californians to check local laws before using fireworks. Some communities ban all fireworks, while others allow only state-approved “Safe and Sane” types.

More information is available at ReadyforWildfire.org.

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.