Laguna Beach warns residents about illegal fireworks after July brush fire

A Laguna Beach public safety official urged residents to obey state and local fireworks laws ahead of the Fourth of July, saying a single firework started a brush fire last July that forced evacuations affecting hundreds of homes.

"It only takes one spark to put people's lives and property at risk," the official said, describing families who grabbed belongings and left as mutual aid crews from across Orange County responded.

Officials reminded the public that fireworks sold, possessed, transported or used in California must carry a California State Fire Marshal seal; items lacking that seal are illegal across the state. The State Fire Marshal classifies fireworks into three categories: snap caps/snappers, "safe and sane" and dangerous fireworks, and the legal status and penalties differ by category.

The official said snap caps and snappers (party poppers and similar items) are lower risk but cautioned they can still ignite dry vegetation. "While these products are legal for sale and use in some places, they should be used with caution, especially around dry vegetation," the official said.

Laguna Beach Municipal Code, the announcement said, prohibits the storage, sale, possession, handling and use of "safe and sane" fireworks within the city limits; violations may prompt enforcement and penalties. The official also warned that possession of dangerous fireworks without a permit is unlawful under California law and that possession of large quantities can result in felony charges.

Devices such as M80s, cherry bombs, dry-ice bombs or any modification of a firework are classified under California law as explosives or destructive devices rather than fireworks; possessing or using those devices can carry felony charges and greater consequences if used near homes, vehicles or public places.

The announcement said Laguna Beach Police, Fire and Marine Safety Departments are actively monitoring for illegal activity and that investigations will follow even if enforcement efforts are not immediately visible. The official added that anyone responsible for starting a fire may be held financially and legally accountable for damages.

To report illegal or prohibited fireworks, the city provided the Laguna Beach Fire Department's non-emergency line: (949) 497-0701. "Don't assume somebody else will call. One phone call could prevent the next wildfire," the official said.

No injuries or structural losses were reported in the July incident, the official said, but the city emphasized that small sparks can have severe consequences and urged residents to err on the side of safety.