The Fullerton City Council has adopted an urgency ordinance that will strengthen the city’s regulations on illegal fireworks.
In a press release issued Wednesday, city officials said the ordinance passed unanimously with one councilmember absent.
The new legislation, which goes into effect immediately, significantly raises fines and enforces a zero-tolerance policy for the use and possession of illegal fireworks.
“The council’s swift action reflects its determination to protect Fullerton neighborhoods from the threats posed by illegal fireworks, including fires, injuries, property damage and disruptions to residents, pets and those with sensory sensitivities,” officials said.
Penalties included in the updated ordinance include:
- $3,000 fine for first offense
- $5,000 fine for second offense
- $7,000 fine for third offense
Additionally, the ordinance also includes clauses for parental liability and private property owner responsibility.
“Parents or guardians of minors who use illegal fireworks will be cited,” officials said. “Property owners who permit or fail to prevent the use or sale of dangerous fireworks on or adjacent to their property will be held accountable.”
On top of that, increased patrols will be conducted throughout the city and authorities will be targeting their response to resident-submitted complaints and tips.
“The city council stands united in protecting the safety, peace and well-being of our residents,” said Fullerton Mayor Fred Jung. “Illegal fireworks have no place in our community.”
The only time city residents are permitted to use fireworks is between on and only on July 4 between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. as long as they are designated as “safe and sane” and are kept on private property. All other fireworks, including aerial, explosive, or erratic types, are strictly prohibited under state and local law.
With the 4th of July holiday just weeks away, Fullerton officials advise community members who want to celebrate “in a safe and spirited way” with fireworks to attend the city’s 4th of July Celebration in the downtown plaza.
To report illegal fireworks within the city of Fullerton, call the Fullerton Police Department’s non-emergency line at 714-738-3165 or email [email protected].
Also recently increasing their illegal fireworks enforcement is the city of Carson, where residents think that illegal overnight firework shows are “not going to stop.”
