🎆 Fireworks Are Illegal in Woodside Fire Protection District — Here's Why 

As we approach the 4th of July, the Woodside Fire Protection District reminds all residents and visitors that all fireworks — including “safe and sane” fireworks — are strictly prohibited within the District’s boundaries. The best way to prevent injuries and fires is simple: avoid using fireworks altogether. Instead, enjoy a public fireworks display put on by professionals — it's safer, legal, and just as festive!

🚫 Why Are Fireworks Illegal?

All fireworks, including “safe and sane” types, are strictly prohibited within the boundaries of the Woodside Fire Protection District — which includes both the Town of Woodside, Town of Portola Valley and Unincorporated Areas of San Mateo County.

 This prohibition is supported by:

• Local ordinance enforced by the District under the District Fire Code Section 5601: The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks within all areas of the Woodside Fire Protection District are prohibited. & District Fire Code Section 5608: All non-professional fireworks listed by the California State Fire Marshal as “Safe and Sane” are prohibited within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Woodside Fire Protection District

• High wildfire risk in our area, especially during the dry summer months, makes fireworks extremely dangerous.

Violators are subject to fines and potential prosecution, as even small fireworks can trigger devastating fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• More than 19,000 fires are started by fireworks annually in the U.S.
• In 2023 alone, over 10,000 people were injured badly enough to require emergency treatment — with many injuries involving the hands, face, and eyes.
• Children under 15 account for nearly 1/3 of all fireworks injuries.
• Another 1/3 injured were adults aged 25-44.
• Sparklers alone burn at temperatures above 1,200°F, posing serious burn and fire hazards.

In our local community — where drought conditions and high fuel loads are a constant — even a single spark can escalate into a wildfire threatening homes and lives.

Even seemingly harmless fireworks like sparklers reach temperatures over 1,200°F — hot enough to melt metal or cause severe burns and wildfires.

 Don’t take the risk. Leave fireworks to the professionals and protect your family, pets, and neighborhood.

🎇 Safer Alternatives and Fun Tips

• Try glow sticks instead of sparklers — they offer a festive, colorful glow without the fire danger.
• Attend a professional fireworks show hosted in nearby communities for a safe and legal celebration.

Planning to grill outdoors for the holiday? Keep it safe with these tips:

• Maintain a 3-foot safety zone around the grill — keep children, pets, and flammable objects away.
• Always supervise the grill while in use.
• Place your grill on a flat, stable surface well away from structures, overhangs, or dry vegetation.
• Check your grill frequently after, to ensure it is fully extinguished

To report illegal fireworks activity, please call San Mateo County Public Safety Communications (650) 368-1421

By following these safety guidelines, you’re helping ensure a fun, fire-safe, and injury-free Independence Day for everyone in the community.

Happy 4th of July from Woodside Fire Protection District!