Illegal Fireworks Ordinance

Fireworks, including those marked "safe and sane", are illegal in the City of Signal Hill.

In April 2022, the City adopted an ordinance as recommended by the State Fire Marshal, which imposes fines ranging from $1,000 to $80,000 for possessing, storing, selling, displaying or setting off fireworks in Signal Hill. 

Additionally, anyone who “hosts” a social gathering or other use of illegal fireworks on their property could be held responsible. A “host” is defined as a person in charge of a private property, including an owner, tenant, landlord or property manager who “supervises, officiates, conducts, controls or is otherwise in charge of the activity on the property.” The “host” does not have to be present during the use of illegal fireworks to be cited. However, if a host immediately notifies the Signal Hill Police Department of illegal fireworks on their property, they will not be held responsible. 

Individuals and/or hosts will be charged a fine of $1,000 for a first-time offense involving less than 100 pounds of fireworks, plus $250 for fireworks disposal, for a total of $1,250. The fine and disposal amounts charged increase by the number of offenses per year and the weight of the fireworks involved. A third-time offense within a year for less than 100 pounds of fireworks will result in a $3,000 fine plus a $1,000 disposal fee. Please review the updated ordinance here (PDF).

Please remember that the City’s Municipal Code specifically prohibits sparklers, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, aerial bombs, and buzz bombs. Fireworks are harmful to people, pets, and property. The risk is not worth it – please help keep our community safe!