California, nothing is different this July 4th. Most fireworks that you want to set off yourself, are illegal.

The state categorizes fireworks into “dangerous” and “safe and sane.” Obviously, the “dangerous” ones are the illegal ones. These are the ones where pyrotechnic operators need a license and permit; these are the fireworks that are used in official fireworks shows like at the Rose Bowl, Queen Mary, or over the San Francisco Bay Area. These are the more spectacular fireworks that make thousands of people watch in awe.

The general public, you unless you happen to be a pyrotechnic operator, can sell, purchase, and use the “safe and sane” fireworks. Of course, there are strict rules:

To sell, one must have a special license and they can only sell between June 28th and...