New rules limit where and when fireworks may be used

– The Templeton Community Services District is reminding residents that only State Fire Marshal-approved Safe and Sane fireworks may be sold, possessed, and used within district boundaries and that updated regulations will be in effect for Independence Day.

Safe and Sane fireworks are defined under California Health and Safety Code Section 12529 and classified by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 12562. Fireworks that do not meet those standards are illegal and may result in penalties of up to $1,000 per violation.

Under the district’s regulations, individuals must be at least 18 years old to sell or handle fireworks. Fireworks may not be sold or transferred to anyone under 18, and purchasers must present valid identification showing they are at least 18 years old.

Under a new regulation, Safe and Sane fireworks may only be discharged on privately owned, non-commercial property and only with the permission of the property owner.

Fireworks are prohibited on streets, public rights-of-way, parking lots, sidewalks, commercial properties, parks, school grounds, publicly owned property, and any location that is not privately owned.

The district has also changed the permitted discharge hours. Except for approved sales demonstrations, Safe and Sane fireworks may only be discharged on July 4 between noon and 10 p.m. The discharge of fireworks outside those hours is prohibited.

Violations of the district’s fireworks regulations may result in criminal penalties. Except as otherwise provided under California Health and Safety Code Section 12702, violations involving illegal fireworks are subject to a $1,000 fine per offense, while violations involving Safe and Sane fireworks are subject to a $100 fine per offense.

The district said violations may also be prosecuted as misdemeanors and may result in up to one year in county jail, fines, or both.

Templeton Fire and Emergency Services said aerial surveillance will be used this year, and property owners may be cited under Templeton’s new fireworks social host ordinance.

The Templeton Community Services District encourages residents to follow all fireworks regulations, use fireworks as directed, keep water nearby, and properly dispose of spent fireworks.