2026 SAFE AND SANE FIREWORKS SALES

Summary

This resolution updates the rules and regulations for the retail sale, possession, and discharge of "safe and sane" fireworks in Fullerton for 2026, building upon Ordinance No. 3183 (2012) and Resolution No. 2022-018. The City will continue to issue a maximum of 15 permits annually to qualifying local tax-exempt nonprofits and schools via a lottery system.

Key changes for the 2026 lottery structure include:

• 5 permits reserved for Youth Sports Partner League organizations.
• 3 permits designated for High School Athletic Programs (one each for Troy, Sunny Hills, and Fullerton High Schools).
• 7 permits allocated for all other qualified community organizations.

Permit holders must maintain $1 million per occurrence / $2 million general aggregate public liability insurance. Fireworks sales are permitted from July 1-3 (12 PM-10 PM) and July 4 (10 AM-9 PM). Discharge is allowed only on July 4th from 10 AM-10 PM, with strict prohibitions on public property, high fire hazard zones, within 10 feet of structures, and by individuals under 16.

The 2025 Annual Report provides context, showing total gross sales of $906,403 and net profits of $227,393 for participating groups. Public safety efforts, funded by permit fees ($3019 per permit), included additional police and fire staffing. In 2025, the Police Department responded to 211 fireworks-related calls (a 39% increase from 2024), and the Fire Department responded to 15 calls, confiscating 150 pounds of illegal fireworks.

Citizen Impact

Residents will continue to have the option to purchase and discharge "safe and sane" fireworks on July 4th, supporting local nonprofit and school fundraising efforts. However, strict rules prohibit discharge on public property and in high fire hazard zones, aiming to enhance public safety. The increase in fireworks-related police calls in 2025 highlights ongoing enforcement challenges.

Confidence

high