Atascadero Adopts New Social Host Ordinance to Reduce Illegal Fireworks and Protect Community Safety

On December 9, 2025, the Atascadero City Council unanimously adopted a new Fireworks Social Host Ordinance designed to reduce illegal fireworks, strengthen public safety, and protect neighborhoods during high-risk fire seasons. The ordinance takes effect immediately.

Illegal fireworks have been a persistent concern in Atascadero, particularly during Independence Day and New Year’s Eve. These activities pose significant fire danger, disturb residents and animals, strain emergency response systems, and create preventable risks to life and property. In response to ongoing community concerns, the City has implemented a more effective enforcement tool to deter illegal fireworks before they cause harm.

Key Provisions of the Ordinance

• Social Host Liability: Individuals who own, control, or host gatherings on a property are now strictly liable for any illegal fireworks discharged on or adjacent to that property.
• Administrative Fines: Each violation may result in a $1,000 administrative fine, up to a maximum of $10,000 per day.
• Criminal Penalties: Violations may also be prosecuted as misdemeanors when appropriate.
• Cost Recovery: The City may recover costs associated with emergency responses, including personnel time, equipment damage, and medical expenses for injured responders.

Why the Ordinance Was Adopted

The purpose of the new ordinance is public safety education and fire prevention. By placing responsibility on the event host or property controller, the City aims to reduce the use of illegal fireworks and improve response capabilities during peak fire danger periods. This model has proven effective in nearby jurisdictions facing similar public safety challenges.

“Illegal fireworks put our entire community at risk,” said Police Chief Dan Suttles. “This ordinance gives us a more practical and enforceable way to hold people accountable and to keep our neighborhoods safe. Our goal is to prevent fires, prevent injuries, and give residents some peace during the holidays.”

What Residents Should Know

• All fireworks, including “Safe and Sane” fireworks, remain prohibited within Atascadero city limits.
• The ordinance applies to property owners, renters, and anyone hosting or controlling a gathering.
• Social hosts may be held responsible even if they did not personally set off fireworks.
• Reasonable preventative steps, such as informing guests and reporting violations, can help avoid liability.
• Residents are encouraged to report illegal fireworks early and are not expected to confront violators.

Citywide Education Effort

The City will launch an outreach campaign to inform residents about the new ordinance, the dangers of illegal fireworks, and the steps community members can take to help keep Atascadero safe. This includes website updates, social media posts, a press release, and community presentations.

Reporting Illegal Fireworks

Residents are encouraged to report illegal fireworks by calling the Atascadero Police Department’s non-emergency line at 805-461-5051. For emergencies, including active fires, residents should call 9-1-1 immediately.