Fireworks Ordinance

Fireworks are not permitted anywhere in the unincorporated areas of Placer County except when approved by the county and executed by a pyrotechnic vendor licensed by the California State Fire Marshal. Due to Placer County’s vulnerability to damaging wildfires, the Board of Supervisors has adopted an ordinance prohibiting fireworks of all types, including those ‘safe and sane’ fireworks intended for home use that are sold at roadside stands in Placer County and throughout the region.

There are, however, circumstances when public fireworks displays can be considered, typically to celebrate certain holidays, at visitor attractions and also for smaller public and private events, including birthdays and weddings. For these and other special events, the county has developed an online application and review process that requires individuals or organizations considering a fireworks display to hire a licensed pyrotechnic vendor and also take other steps as may be necessary to reduce potential fire hazards and other negative impacts to local Placer communities. Each application is reviewed by the Office of Emergency Services and ultimately approved by the director of risk management, but usually also requires review and approval from external agencies, including local or regional fire officials, U.S. Coast Guard and the Federal Aviation Administration.

Learn more about requirements for fireworks display permits hereFireworks Permits.