BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) - District Attorney Mike Ramsey reminded the public that any possession of fireworks, even those designated as “safe and sane,” within the unincorporated portions of Butte County is illegal and strictly prohibited.

Ramsey noted that only the cities of Oroville, Gridley, and Biggs allow for the sales of “safe and sane” fireworks within their city limits. Ramsey noted that any lighting or even possession of any fireworks outside those city limits is illegal and subject to fines upwards of  $1,000 and six months in county jail. Fire danger will be high this 4th of July holiday as recently shown in local fires and any possession in the county area will be vigorously prosecuted.

“Do not buy fireworks within a city and believe just because they are designated as ‘safe and sane’ that they can be taken out of the city. No fireworks can leave the city limits,” Ramsey said, recalling that the destructive Thompson Fire in Oroville was started by so-called “safe and sane” fireworks last year on July 2, 2024.

Ramsey also warned that any fire either intentionally or negligently set by fireworks would be prosecuted as a felony.