Where are ‘safe and sane’ fireworks legal in SLO County? What you need to know

Lucy Peterson
·2 min read

Looking to celebrate the Fourth of July safely?

Although so-called “safe and sane” fireworks can be set off in some San Luis Obispo County communities on Independence Day, it’s illegal to use or possess fireworks in most of the region.

Fireworks are also forbidden in Los Padres National Forest and at state and county parks and beaches.

The only SLO County locations where personal fireworks are allowed are within the boundaries of Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Morro Bay, Oceano, San Miguel and Templeton.

In Morro Bay, people can set off fireworks at private residences, but not at the beach or park areas. Some restrictions may apply, and offenders can be cited and/or fined for illegal fireworks use.

This year, many communities will be increasing enforcement of illegal firework use.

Paso Robles police officers and firefighters will be using aerial device technology with GPS and video capabilities to help pinpoint where fireworks are being used, the city said in a news release on Wednesday.

Mild weather and clear skies brought the crowds to the beach for the Pismo Beach firework show, Monday, July 2022.
Mild weather and clear skies brought the crowds to the beach for the Pismo Beach firework show, Monday, July 2022.

How to keep pets safe around fireworks

This Fourth of July, Woods Humane Society and the San Luis Obispo County Animal Services Division are asking the community to keep pets out of shelters and in their homes.

“Each year, our shelter fills up with pets who become lost after being frightened by fireworks,” Eric Anderson, Animal Services manager for SLO County, said in a news release.

In order to avoid unnecessarily filling up shelter space, Woods Humane Society urges the community to try and reunite pets with their owners before bringing them to Animal Services.

Trying to locate a pet’s owner before bringing them to the shelter improves chances of reunification, according to Woods Humane Society.

People buy fireworks at a fireworks stand in Templeton in 2012. So-called “safe and sane” fireworks are only allowed in some San Luis Obispo County locations.
People buy fireworks at a fireworks stand in Templeton in 2012. So-called “safe and sane” fireworks are only allowed in some San Luis Obispo County locations.

To avoid losing a pet due to fireworks, Woods Humane Society recommends keeping pets at home or away from noises and crowds. Additionally, pet owners should be aware of exits that pets might escape through.

It’s also important to make sure pets are wearing collars with up-to-date tags, even pets who stay indoors, Woods Humane Society said.

For more information on how to keep pets safe this Fourth of July, visit https://woodshumanesociety.org/fireworks/