Tracy homeowners are being warned that illegal fireworks can turn a holiday celebration into a fine, a fire call, or a costly neighborhood dispute.
The warning comes as local officials remind residents that only Safe and Sane fireworks with the California State Fire Marshal seal are legal inside the City of Tracy.
Anything without that seal is illegal, including fireworks that fly into the air, dart across the ground, or explode.
Backyard hosts should also watch where fireworks are used, who is lighting them, and whether sparks could reach nearby homes, fences, dry grass, vehicles, or a neighbor’s yard.
The Rule Starts With the State Fire Marshal Seal
The City of Tracy says Safe and Sane fireworks are allowed only during approved dates and times.
The South San Joaquin County Fire Authority says fireworks without the official California State Fire Marshal seal are considered dangerous fireworks and remain illegal throughout its jurisdiction.
Legal Fireworks Still Have Time Limits
In Tracy, Safe and Sane fireworks may be discharged from noon to 10 p.m. from June 28 through July 3, and from noon to midnight on July 4.
Sales follow a separate schedule. Legal sales are allowed June 28 from noon to 8 p.m., June 29 through July 3 from noon to 10 p.m., and July 4 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
A firework with the proper seal can still create trouble if guests light it after approved hours or use it too close to homes, dry grass, fences, vehicles, or neighboring yards.
Some Places Are Off-Limits Even for Legal Fireworks
Tracy’s fireworks ordinance says it is unlawful to discharge fireworks in parking lots, vacant properties, open commercial areas, or open industrial areas unless the location has city approval.
The ordinance also bars people from firing Safe and Sane fireworks onto another person’s property without consent or within 10 feet of a residential dwelling or other structure.
A water source must be within 100 feet of the discharge location.
The Fine Risk Starts at $1,000
Tracy Police have warned residents that illegal fireworks can bring fines starting at $1,000, along with possible criminal charges, emergency response costs, and liability for damage.
Residents who see illegal fireworks activity are being told to use the Tracy Police Department non-emergency line instead of calling 911 for non-emergency fireworks reports.
Homeowners planning a July 4 gathering should check the seal, follow the approved hours, keep fireworks away from structures and dry areas, have water nearby, and leave illegal fireworks out of the celebration.