What to know about firework laws in Merced and where to see displays
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Only 'Safe and Sane' fireworks are legal in Merced from June 28 to July 6.
- The Fresno burn center doubles patient intake during July 4 due to fireworks.
- Merced-area cities offer public firework displays from July 3 to July 5.
What is the law about fireworks in Merced?
In California, only fireworks with the “Safe and Sane” label are allowed to be sold and used. Cities and counties are allowed to adopt stricter regulations but the Merced city and county have not.
The sale of legal fireworks is also limited to noon June 28 through noon July 6.
Where are firework stands in Merced?
Many groups sell safe and sane fireworks as a fundraiser. Companies such as Phantom or TNT Fireworks provide a booth and fireworks to individuals and groups who then manage sales. Both companies keep online lists of all their stands.
Firework stands are required to get a permit from the city or county of Merced depending on location and be inspected by the respective fire department.
RoseAnne Johnson, who manages the stand at Christian Life Center with her husband, the church’s pastor, said they’ve been selling fireworks for 30 years and that she loves the community building.
“We have people that bring food, because everyone’s barbecuing on the Fourth, of course, so we don’t get that luxury to barbecue,” Johnson said. “It’s a community, it’s a connection, it’s unity.”
Why are some fireworks illegal?
Fireworks that rise into the air, explode or travel along the ground and roman candles are among those classified as illegal under state law due to the risk of injury or starting fires.
How many people are injured by fireworks?
The Leon S. Peters Burn Center in Fresno — the only burn center between Sacramento and Los Angeles — sees double its average number of patients during the July 4 period according to Rebecca Barco, assistant nurse manager for burn services at the center. She said the most common injuries from fireworks are missing fingers, hands and eyes.
Nationwide, nearly 10,000 people were injured and eight people were killed by fireworks in 2023 according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. 66% of those injuries were in the period around the holiday.
Last year, fireworks were the cause of 33 fires in Merced County according to CalFire data.
How do I stay safe when using fireworks?
The state fire marshal recommends always having adults present, lighting one firework at a time, never pointing at other people, having water on hand and avoiding dry brush.
Where do I report illegal fireworks?
Illegal fireworks can be reported to the city of Merced at (209) 388-SAFE or celebratesafe@cityofmerced.org. They can be reported to the county fire department at its non-emergency number, 209-385-7445.
Where are firework displays nearby?
Merced Speedway - July 3
Merced Speedway will be hosting races starting at 7 p.m. with a fireworks display to follow. Admission is free.
Gustine - 9 p.m. July 4
The City of Gustine will host its 115th annual fireworks display at Gustine High School. Vendors and music will begin at 7:30 p.m. Parking is free.
Atwater - 9:15 p.m. July 4
Atwater will host a concert and fireworks display starting at 6 p.m. at Castle Commerce Center. Gates close at 9:15 for the fireworks display. Admission is $20 per car or $5 per walk-in person.
Livingston - 9:30 p.m. July 4
Livingston will see a July 4 festival all day at Max Foster Sports Complex, culminating in a fireworks display at 9:30. The event is free but parking is $5.
Lake McClure - 9 p.m. July 5
The Merced Irrigation District will be hosting a display with viewing areas at McClure Point. Tickets to the park are $25 and must be purchased online.