Firework stands are gearing up for the first day of sales across the Santa Maria Valley

SANTA MARIA VALLEY, Calif. – Firework stands are gearing up for the first day of sales from Santa Maria to Lompoc. In Santa Barbara County, all fireworks are prohibited except in Lompoc, Santa Maria, and Guadalupe.

In the Santa Maria Valley, most firework stands fundraise for local organizations and schools. There will be 26 non-profit stands in the city of Santa Maria that will benefit local community members.

Only participating non-profit organizations are authorized to sell Safe and Sane fireworks in the city limits.

Legal firework sales begin Friday at noon and will continue until 9 p.m. on Thursday, Jul. 4.

Fireworks can only be used on the 4th of July from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Fireworks may not be ignited or discharged on other people's properties, within ten feet of a residence, or in a public area.

Public areas include city streets and sidewalks, and minors under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.

Citations of $1,000 may be given to people who are found to be using illegal fireworks.

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