Where fireworks are — and aren't — legal in Solano County
Photo: A billboard for a TNT fireworks stand sits on the corner of Stratford Avenue at North Lincoln Street in Dixon. (Photo by Matthew Keys for Solano NewsNet)
Fire departments across the region are beginning to issue updated guidance on where fireworks are legal and what type are allowed as the Independence Day holiday approaches.
This year, several communities in Solano County have tougher anti-fireworks ordinances on the books that could earn a property owner fines of over $1,000 when illegal fireworks are used.
Aerial fireworks of all kinds are illegal for individuals and groups to use anywhere in Solano County, though there are exceptions for permitted shows in some communities.
Other cities have varying ordinances that regulate safe-and-sane fireworks, with some communities allowing them while others say they’re off-limits.
Here is a breakdown of where fireworks are allowed or prohibited in Solano County:
Benicia
Fireworks of all kinds are prohibited in the City of Benicia — even “safe and sane” fireworks that are legal in other Solano County communities. A city ordinance says the prohibition is to protect the health and safety of residents that live within the City of Benicia. Licensed fireworks shows are permitted, and an aerial fireworks display will take place Monday, July 4 at 9:30 p.m. near the First Street Green.
Dixon
Fireworks of all kinds were banned in the City of Dixon until 2011 when the city’s council adopted a resolution allowing “safe-and-sane” fireworks to be sold and used in the city. Safe-and-sane fireworks include sparklers, spinners, firecrackers and anything else that does not fly into the sky or explode. Those types of fireworks can be used in Dixon between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. each day until the end of July 4. Several fireworks stands are open within the City of Dixon that are offering fireworks that conform to the city’s ordinance. Fireworks purchased legally in Dixon can’t be used or re-sold in parts of Solano County, where all types of fireworks are prohibited.
Fairfield
All types of fireworks are banned in the City of Fairfield. Earlier this month, the local police department issued a stern warning to anyone who is caught with or who uses illegal fireworks: Your fireworks will be confiscated, and you could face fines or jail time. Those who still choose to ignite fireworks in Fairfield will be held liable for any fires that result in loss of life or property. City officials suggest those who are interested in a fireworks display travel to a city where they are allowed.
Rio Vista
Fireworks that are classified as “safe-and-sane” can be used within the City of Rio Vista, but are only allowed to be used between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. on July 4, according to the city’s ordinance. Safe-and-sane fireworks include sparklers, spinners, firecrackers and anything else that does not fly into the sky or explode. Permitted outdoor stands are allowed to sell these types of fireworks within Rio Vista until July 4.
Suisun City
The only fireworks allowed within the incorporated area of Suisun City are “safe-and-sane” fireworks — things like sparklers, spinners, firecrackers or other types of fireworks that do not fly into the sky or explode. Even still, fire officials say people who use safe-and-sane fireworks should do so at least 10 feet away from any structure, and fireworks use is not allowed on public streets, public parks or any vacant area where dry vegetation is present. Safe-and-sane fireworks may be used between the hours of 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. until just after the Independence Day holiday. An aerial fireworks display will take place on July 4 at the Suisun City marina.
Vacaville
Fireworks of all kinds are not allowed, even ones designated as “safe-and-sane,” and even if they’re legally purchased in a community that does allow them. Fines associated with fireworks use are tougher this year, with property owners facing tickets of up to $1,000 if fireworks are used. Fireworks have been associated with several wildland fires in and around Vacaville in the past, including a fire that threatened dozens of homes near Keating Park in 2015.
Vallejo
Like Vacaville, Vallejo has a zero-tolerance ordinance for all kinds of fireworks. And, like, Vacaville, city officials in Vallejo have increased fines up to $1,000 for individuals who use fireworks or for those who knowingly allow fireworks to be used on their property. The City of Vallejo has an online reporting form for concerned residents who have photos or videos of illegal fireworks use. The City of Vallejo has an officially-designated fireworks show taking place at Mare Island on July 4.
Rural Solano County
Unincorporated areas of Solano County are subject to a no-tolerance ban on fireworks use, meaning all types of fireworks are illegal within rural Solano County. Safe-and-sane fireworks purchased in one of the three Solano County communities where they are legal still cannot be used in rural Solano County. An ordinance regulating fireworks use in Solano County does possession of safe-and-sane fireworks if they are being transported between cities where those types of fireworks are allowed.
Accidentally Bought Fireworks You Can’t Use?
Most local fire departments offer an amnesty program that allows individuals who bought unsuspectingly purchased illicit fireworks can turn them in without question or consequence. Contact your local fire department for more information.
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