In May 2007, the Ontario City Council enacted an ordinance which reaffirmed existing Ontario Municipal Codes prohibiting fireworks and declared fireworks within the City of Ontario a nuisance, carrying a $1,000 fine. This fine is in addition to any other civil penalty, criminal prosecution or fine. Ontario revised the ordinance in October 2015 to include:
- Holding residential property owners responsible for violations occurring on their property
- Holding parents and legal guardians responsible for any violations of the code by a minor
- Issuing citations via mail
Possession and use of any type of fireworks within the City of Ontario is illegal, therefore are prohibited unless a permit is issued to use, transport or store the fireworks or explosives. A permit must be obtained by the California State Fire Marshal and approved by the Ontario Fire Department. Only state‑licensed pyrotechnicians will be issued permits.