Stop Illegal Fireworks! (SIF)

Stop Illegal Fireworks! (SIF) is a new initiative in Richmond dedicated to eliminating the use of illegal fireworks in the city. The group aims to engage the entire community in this effort through a variety of strategies, including distributing informational window signs for homes and businesses, collaborating with city departments, Neighborhood Councils, the County Supervisor, the school district, and the media.


CITY OF RICHMOND HAS A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR FIREWORKS

State law divides fireworks into “dangerous” and “safe & sane” - but in Richmond, both are strictly prohibited unless permitted for specific purposes.

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  2. 2 RPD reporting sign
  3. 3 House on fire_Spanish
  4. 4 Stop-Illegal-Fireworks-Campaign-Flyer-1-696x705

State of California — Fireworks Laws Overview

California classifies fireworks into two main categories:

  • Dangerous fireworks are always illegal for general public use and require special display licenses from the State Fire Marshal.
  • Safe and sanefireworks may be allowed under strict conditions—only sold by licensed retailers and displaying the State Fire Marshal seal during a short period each year. However, state law allows stricter local rules.
    • The sale, transport, or use of fireworks without the state seal is illegal, with potential fines up to $50,000 and up to a year in jail.

City of Richmond — Local Ordinance NO.21-11N.S.

Richmond’s Municipal Code (Chapter 11.05, Article XI) prohibits all fireworks—both “dangerous” and “safe and sane”—within city limits, unless under a valid permit for “exempt fireworks” or for special public event displays. Possession, sale, use, storage, display, ignition, or discharge without a proper permit is considered unlawful and is a misdemeanor.

Local authorities may also seize any fireworks found in violation of the ordinance.

In addition, the Richmond Fire Department and Police Department emphasize a zero-tolerance stance, with fines of up to $1,000 for violations and zero-tolerance statements publicly posted.

Permit Requirements in Richmond

Permits for fireworks are only granted for:

  • “Exempt fireworks” – e.g., industrial, religious, or other uses designated by the State Fire Marshal and authorized by a Richmond permit.
  • Special-event fireworks displays – held at public events approved by the City (e.g., a July 3 fireworks show) require a Fireworks / Pyrotechnic Display Permit issued by Richmond Fire‑Rescue. These must be conducted by licensed Fireworks Display Supervisors or Senior Pyrotechnicians and include submission of an indemnity agreement.

Permit applications are managed via the City’s MyPermit online system for convenience and transparency. 

Fee Schedule for Fire Department Services

Although Richmond doesn’t post a permit fee directly tied to fireworks, the general Fire Department Prevention Services Fee Schedule (adopted June 18, 2019) applies:

  • Fees are based on an hourly rate of $251, rounded up to the next whole dollar.
  • Minimum charges apply (1-hour minimum during normal hours).
  • After-hours, weekends, or expedited services carry a four-hour minimum, with tiered increments ($63 for 15 mins, $125 for 30 mins, $188 for 45 mins).

For specific fireworks-related permits, actual totals will depend on estimated plan review and inspection hours at the same rates.

 Learn more from the California Office of the State Fire Marshal

Office of the State Fire Marshal | OSFM

fire.ca.gov