By STAFF
San Luis Obispo County has strengthened its fireworks ordinance, adopting amendments to Title 6, Section 6.32.0 during a Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20. The updates expand enforcement authority and accountability measures in anticipation of increased fire danger and the upcoming holiday weekend.
According to Commander Hank Abbas, who spoke at the May 21 North Coast Advisory Council meeting, the revised ordinance includes provisions to hold specific individuals and property owners accountable for the use of illegal fireworks.
Under the new rules, property owners may be cited for each illegal firework discharged from their property. Adults who are responsible for minors that ignite illegal fireworks may also face citations. In addition, spectators who are knowingly present during the use of illegal fireworks can be held liable. Promotion or coordination of illegal fireworks, including through online platforms, could also be subject to enforcement depending on the circumstances.
The County Fire Department (CAL FIRE) has issued reminders that all fireworks and sky lanterns are banned by local ordinance. It is illegal to use, sell, or possess fireworks anywhere in San Luis Obispo County, including Cambria, unless specifically permitted. Violations are subject to a misdemeanor citation and a $2,000 fine, with a strict zero-tolerance policy in effect.
With high fire danger fueled by an abundant grass crop and ongoing wildfire activity across the state, County officials urge residents to avoid any behavior that could spark a fire. Those found responsible for starting a wildfire may face civil and criminal penalties, including reimbursement of suppression costs.
At the May 21 North Coast Advisory Council (NCAC) meeting Commander Abbas also announced that the Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies will be ramping up patrols across the Central Coast for the July Fourth weekend, deploying additional resources to enforce traffic safety laws and fire code violations.
The ordinance changes reflect growing concern about illegal fireworks in high-risk areas and aim to deter unsafe activity through stricter accountability and community outreach.
