The city of Los Angeles and LA County have strict laws concerning the possession and lighting of fireworks. Sustained periods of drought make the area especially vulnerable to devastating fires, capable of causing property damages and injury to residents.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department has a category of fireworks known as “safe-and-sane” and depending on the city in LA County, it may be legal to own these types of fireworks. Safe-and-sane fireworks are those that do not explode or fly. In order to be sold legally in Los Angeles County, safe-and-sane fireworks must carry a state stamp.
Criminal violations for illegally possessing safe-and-sane fireworks in California are a misdemeanor offense, carrying a fine of at least $500 and up to $1,000. Violators may also be subject to jail terms of up to one year. Possessing so-called “dangerous fireworks” like bottle rockets, firecrackers, and mortars may incur a fine of up to $50,000.
Furthermore, people hurt by another’s negligent use of fireworks, whether illegal or lawfully possessed, may file injury lawsuits to recover compensation for their damages. If you or a loved one was hurt by someone’s careless use of any type of firework, you should strongly consider speaking to a qualified Los Angeles fireworks injury attorney about your case.
Types of safe-and-sane fireworks
The following is a short list of safe-and-sane fireworks that may be legal in certain areas:
- Fountains;
- Sparklers;
- Snakes;
- Smoke bombs;
- Snappers; and
In the city of Los Angeles, it is illegal to own, store, or ignite safe-and-sane fireworks. While some may not see the harm in possessing these seemingly benign types of fireworks, even humble fireworks like sparklers may burn at temperatures of 1,200 degrees or more.
The term safe-and-sane was popularized in the middle of the 20th century to describe new fireworks sold to consumers. The truth is, there really is no safe firework. Under the right conditions, almost any type of firework has the potential to cause catastrophic property damage or personal injury.
Even if a type of firework is considered safe-and-sane in your LA County city, those in possession have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to prevent undue harm or damage to another. This may include keeping them away from children, keeping onlookers at a safe distance, or using the firework for its intended purpose.
Los Angeles fireworks injury attorneys
If you or a loved one was hurt by a firework, whether it be at a private demonstration, city or municipal display, or near a fireworks stand or storage area, you may be able to file a claim for your damages. The duty to follow Los Angeles fireworks laws extends to all individuals, manufacturers, retailers, and the cities and contractors assigned to put on brilliant fireworks displays.
Qualified Los Angeles fireworks injury attorneys can help injury victims get compensation for their hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Speak to a Los Angeles fireworks injury attorney about your case and get the compensation you and your family need to be made whole again.