With Fourth of July celebrations just a week away, state and local officials in Sacramento County are cracking down on illegal fireworks. In a joint press conference, CAL FIRE, local law enforcement, Sacramento Metro Fire, and Shriners Children’s Northern California announced a strict zero-tolerance policy backed by significantly increased penalties for the 2026 holiday season.
State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant revealed that the dangers are already hitting close to home. “So far this year alone, in our jurisdiction, we have already responded to over a dozen wildfires sparked by fireworks,” Berlant said. “That is over a dozen preventable fires that put people, communities, as well as first responders at risk.”
Strict New Fines and Per-Firework Penalties
Following directives to better protect neighborhoods, schools, parks, and the American River Parkway, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors updated the local fireworks ordinance.
Under the newly enacted rules:
- Per-Item Fines: Fines are now levied for each individual illegal firework used, as well as for each instance of using “Safe and Sane” fireworks outside of legal hours.
- Massive Financial & Criminal Penalties: State law dictates that possessing, transporting, or using prohibited fireworks can result in fines up to $50,000 and up to one year in county jail.
- Felony Charges: If an illegal firework ignites a fire causing property loss or great bodily injury, violators face felony charges—including arson—punishable by two to nine years in state prison. Parents are also held legally and financially liable for any damage or injuries caused by their children.
Knowing What is Legal in Rio Linda and Sacramento County
In unincorporated Sacramento County (including Rio Linda), only fireworks bearing the official State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” seal are permitted.
The Golden Rule: Anything that goes up in the air, darts across the ground, or explodes is dangerous and 100% illegal.
Legal “Safe and Sane” fireworks can only be purchased from licensed, temporary roadside stands. They are never legally sold over the internet, through the mail, or out of permanent buildings.
⏰ Allowed Days and Hours for “Safe and Sane” Fireworks:
- Sales: Permitted from 12:00 PM (noon) on June 28 through 9:00 PM on July 4.
- Discharge Hours: Permitted only between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM from June 28 through July 4. Using them outside of these hours will trigger the newly enhanced county fines.
Hidden Dangers: Severe Burns and Traumatized Pets
Wildfires are not the only concern for local officials. Medical and animal welfare experts are urging residents to think about the broader impacts on the community.
- Medical Risks: Dr. Soman Sen of Shriners Children’s Northern California warned that even common sparklers pose a massive threat to children. Sparklers burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and can easily ignite clothing. Officials urge families to leave fireworks to responsible adults or, better yet, attend a licensed
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