REPORT Illegal FIREWORKS

Use our online form to report illegal fireworks. Complete the form fully and include as much detail as possible. All reports will be reviewed and if sufficient information is provided, the City’s Code Enforcement Division will issue a warning or citation. Using the online form will not result in enforcement officers being immediately dispatched to the scene. It should not be used to report an emergency. Always call 9-1-1 to report an emergency.

Leave Fireworks To The Pros

All types of fireworks—even those labeled "safe and sane"—are illegal in San José and most of Santa Clara County. San José Municipal Code 10.17.100 states that, except for professional, permitted displays, it is unlawful for any person to possess, store, offer or expose for sale, or use or explode any fireworks. 

free professional shows this fourth of July

There will be two free professional fireworks shows in the City of San José this Fourth of July:

Almaden Lake Regional Park
6099 Winfield Blvd, San José, CA 95120
Festivities: 3:00 PM; Fireworks: 9:15 PM
Live music, food trucks, kids' fun zone
Learn more: https://sjd10.com/4th-of-july

Lake Cunningham Park
2305 S. White Rd., San José, CA 95148
Festivities: 7:00 PM; Fireworks: 9:00 PM
Food trucks and family-friendly activities
Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/p/C7FgQoyyegA/

Do not participate in unpermitted shows

San José is now holding spectators responsible for their role in the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks. Any person who is knowingly present and watching an unpermitted fireworks exhibition is subject to a fine (10.17.105). Individuals who see illegal fireworks being discharged are encouraged to file a report and vacate the area as soon as possible. 

Fines

The fines for using fireworks were last increased in December 2020. They are as follows:

  • $1,000 for a first violation
  • $2,000 for a second violation
    (within 18 months of the previous violation)
  • $3,000 for a third violation
    (within 18 months of the previous violation)
  • The sale of fireworks may result in a fine of up to $50,000 plus jail time, depending on quantity.

Social Host Ordinance

San José’s Social Host Ordinance expands liability to the social host, or person hosting a gathering where fireworks are used. The social host and property owner will be held liable for emergency response costs resulting from the use of illegal fireworks.

Fireworks are dangerous and have caused many fires, costly property damage, and severe injury. Fireworks are also frightening to many pets and wildlife with the peak loss of pets during the year occurring on the 4th of July. Fireworks are also toxic pollutants both to air and water.

Terms Of Use

This program serves to deter the use of illegal fireworks and promote public safety through collaboration between the City of San José (City) and the community we serve. Accordingly, all form submitters agree to the following terms and conditions:

  1. Any photo or video footage containing or related to illegal fireworks use that is submitted may be used by the City as evidence during any stage of an investigation. 
  2. Under no circumstances shall residents who report the use of illegal fireworks construe that they are acting as an agent or employee of the City, San José Fire Department, or the San José Police Department.
  3. The City will contact you to confirm the contents of this complaint using the phone number or email address provided herein. If the responsible party contests his/her citation, you will be asked to provide evidence regarding this complaint. By submitting this information, I understand and agree to the above policy and terms of use.