Logo courtesy of City of Biggs

BIGGS, CA (MPG) - The Biggs City Council on Oct. 14 unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 441, introducing long-overdue updates to the city’s fireworks and weapons regulations, the first major revision in decades.

Interim City Administrator Rodney Harr presented the ordinance, which amends Chapter 7.25 of the Biggs Municipal Code, repealing outdated provisions and establishing a structured permitting framework for the retail sale of “Safe and Sane Certified Fireworks.” 

It also outlines liability requirements, enforcement protocols and penalties for unauthorized use or sales.

“This was an item that was brought forward with the city council sometime back,” Harr said. “The last time this code was updated was 1977. At that time, no fireworks were allowed with the exception of the big, staged ones that were presented.” 

Harr said the ordinance brings the sale of legal fireworks by nonprofit organizations into compliance. 

Under California law, “Safe and Sane” fireworks are those approved by the State Fire Marshal for consumer use. They typically include items like fountains, sparklers and smoke balls; fireworks that do not explode, fly, or move unpredictably. More hazardous types, such as firecrackers, bottle rockets and Roman candles, remain illegal statewide.

Under the proposed rules, only nonprofit organizations with a “principal meeting place” in Biggs may apply for a fireworks sales permit. A maximum of three permits may be issued annually, and sales are limited to the period between June 28 and July 6. Stands must be located on private property with written permission from the owner and staffed by members or volunteers of the sponsoring nonprofit, officials said. 

Organizations may choose their own fireworks provider, including companies like TNT or Phantom, as long as the vendor is certified under California law. 

Jason Hood, area manager for TNT Fireworks, attended the meeting and voiced support for the ordinance and the time city staff put into updating it. 

“I’m in total full support of what’s been proposed,” Hood said. 

The ordinance also includes cost recovery provisions in compliance with AB 43, capping permit fees at 7% of gross sales. Administrative fees are intended to offset expenses related to inspections, enforcement, fire suppression and cleanup, Harr said. 

To ensure public safety, the ordinance prohibits the sale or furnishing of fireworks to anyone under 18. Violations may result in administrative fines, permit revocation or misdemeanor charges under California Health and Safety Code. Fines for illegal sales or use can reach up to $1,000, with increased penalties for repeat offenses or distribution of dangerous fireworks to minors.

Council members raised no objections, and no amendments were proposed during the first reading. 

The ordinance will return for a second reading and final adoption at an upcoming meeting. If approved, it will take effect 30 days after passage and apply to the 2026 Fourth of July season.