As Independence Day approaches, the city of Dixon is reminding residents that only state-approved safe and sane fireworks are permitted within city limits and only during specific dates and times established by municipal code. Photo by Debra Dingman

DIXON, CA (MPG) - As Independence Day approaches, the city of Dixon is reminding residents that only state-approved safe and sane fireworks are permitted within city limits and only during specific dates and times established by municipal code.

Under the Dixon Municipal Code, the possession of safe and sane fireworks is lawful from noon June 28 through noon July 6. Retail sales are permitted from noon to 10 p.m. June 28 and from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 29 through July 4 by nonprofit organizations holding a city fireworks sales permit.

Fireworks that explode, travel through the air or move along the ground, including bottle rockets, skyrockets and firecrackers, remain prohibited in Dixon. Violations of the city's fireworks ordinance may result in an administrative citation and fines of up to $1,000.

The city also prohibits the discharge of fireworks of any kind on city-owned property, including parks, recreation areas and parking lots.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal encourages residents to purchase only state-approved safe and sane fireworks bearing the State Fire Marshal's seal and sold at licensed fireworks stands. Safety recommendations include reading all directions before use, lighting fireworks outdoors only, having an adult present, igniting one firework at a time and keeping a bucket of water and a garden hose nearby. Officials also advise against using fireworks near dry vegetation, attempting to relight malfunctioning fireworks or carrying fireworks in pockets. Fireworks should never be pointed or thrown at another person, and parents may be held responsible for injuries or property damage caused by their children using fireworks.

Six nonprofit organizations are operating licensed fireworks booths in Dixon this year. Booth locations include Living Hope Church of Dixon at Wienerschnitzel, 2500 W. A St.; NorCal Christian Schools at Punjabi Dhaba, 7800 Batavia Road; American Legion Ladies Auxiliary at Safeway, 1235 Stratford Ave.; Soroptimist International of Dixon at Walmart, 235 E. Dorset Drive; Dixon Schools Athletic Boosters at CVS Pharmacy, 1025 N. Adams St.; and Dixon Family Services at Grocery Outlet, 2400 N. First St.

Residents are encouraged to follow local regulations and safety guidelines throughout the Independence Day holiday.

For more information, visit cityofdixonca.gov/departments/Fire/fireworksinformation or call 707-678-7060.