California is seeing a sharp rise in fires and injuries from illegal fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July. Authorities have seized more than 600,000 pounds of fireworks.
California faces increased fire danger ahead of Independence Day due to widespread use of illegal fireworks. Fire departments are bracing for the most challenging night of the year, and authorities are warning that it's not just a law enforcement issue, but a public safety issue.
ABC writes about this.
According to state Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant, illegal fireworks have caused more than $30 million in damage since 2024 alone. “These devices cause serious injuries, start fires, and can cost lives,” he said.
Officials say illegal fireworks have caused more than 1,200 fires and hundreds of injuries in California in the past year, with some of the injuries being critical.
In response, local authorities are deploying extra patrols and new technology. Sacramento, which has a system of fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, is using drones this year to help detect fireworks and capture evidence from the air.
“We have multiple patrol crews, and the drones greatly enhance our capabilities,” said Sacramento Fire Chief Jason Lee. “We expect to see a significant impact.”
More than 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized statewide in the first six months of 2025 — more than triple the annual average. That would be enough to fill two dozen semi-trucks, Berlant said.
The law allows only certified Safe and Sane fireworks that are labeled as such. In Sacramento, they can be purchased until 9 p.m. on July 4, with proceeds going to local causes.
However, many parts of California have outright bans on all fireworks, legal or illegal, and officials urge residents to check their local regulations before celebrating.
