Full Notification

To make sure families stay safe while enjoying their fireworks this 4th of July, residents and visitors are reminded to be mindful of basic safety practices. Only fireworks considered “safe and sane” and bear the State Fire Marshall’s Seal of Approval are legal in the city of Costa Mesa. These fireworks will be sold at booths sponsored by our local service groups, youth sports and philanthropic organizations. Profits from sales will be used to support organizations throughout the year.

Fireworks sales and discharge times will be strictly enforced by the Costa Mesa Police and Fire Departments. Sales are June 30th – July 3rd from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on July 4th from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The discharge of safe and sane fireworks is allowed on July 2nd, 3rd, and 4th only, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. As always, you must be 18 years or older to purchase fireworks.

Fireworks are not permitted in the City’s parks, any public parking lots, or any area of school property. If you are using the street to discharge fireworks, please stay as close to the curb as possible so emergency vehicles can get through if necessary. Also, make sure to set up your viewing area at least 20 feet away from the display area. Any fireworks that discharge into the air are illegal – report these incidents to the police, giving the location as best you can. Block parties are allowed only if you have previously obtained a permit from City Hall.

Additional helpful tips include the following:

• Always read directions and use common sense
• Have an adult present
• Use outdoors only – stay away from buildings, vehicles, dry grass and other flammable objects
• Light one at a time, then move away quickly
• Keep others at a safe distance
• Never throw fireworks at another person
• Do not give to young children
• Have a bucket of water handy for emergencies and for dousing misfired and spent fireworks
• Never attempt to relight or fix malfunctioning fireworks