The City of Carlsbad is strengthening enforcement against the use of illegal fireworks, under an ordinance the City Council adopted at its meeting Tuesday.  

Although fireworks are already illegal in San Diego County, they continue to impact neighborhoods across Carlsbad. Over the past two years, the city has received approximately 130 fireworks-related calls for service, many tied to residential areas and largely during peak holiday periods, such as Memorial Day and Fourth of July. These incidents increase the risk of fires and injuries and place added demand on police and fire resources. 

Under the new ordinance, the Carlsbad Police, Fire and Code Enforcement departments will have the ability to work together to respond to complaints. Key elements include: 

• Holding property owners and renters responsible for illegal fireworks used on or near their property, even if the fireworks are set off by guests or others at a gathering. 
• Anyone in control of the property or organizing a gathering where illegal fireworks are used could be cited and fined.  
• Establishing fines of $1,000 per violation, up to $10,000 per day for those cited. 

These changes are intended to improve public safety, reduce repeat violations and provide clearer, more effective enforcement tools.  

Now that the ordinance has been adopted, it will officially take effect on May 14, 2026, 30 days after adoption. Before enforcement begins, the city will conduct community outreach and education to increase awareness of the new rules.  

Learn more about the ordinance in the staff report.