The number of citations issued by Riverside County authorities for illegal use, storage and transportation of fireworks jumped almost 20% over the Fourth of July period this year compared to last year, it was announced Thursday.
The Executive Office said the final tally of citations written by the Department of Code Enforcement and the Sheriff’s Department totaled 278 for the period beginning the end of June and ending Fourth of July weekend. That compares to 233 issuances during the same time frame last summer.
More than 400 pounds of pyrotechnics were seized, and 10 people were arrested for alleged misdemeanor violations, officials said.
“Every year, we see the impact that illegal fireworks can have on our community, from fires to injuries,” county fire Chief Bill Weiser said. “This year, thanks to our enhanced enforcement and public education efforts, we’ve been able to reduce these risks. The safety of Riverside County residents is always our top priority, and this year’s results reflect our commitment to protecting our neighborhoods from the dangers posed by illegal fireworks.”
The county’s “If You Light It, We’ll Write It” campaign began in June, emphasizing the perils of igniting fireworks, the potential penalties and providing web portals and phone numbers that county residents can utilize to report suspected illicit activity.
There were 2,538 reports this year compared to 3,209 last year, officials said.
In all unincorporated communities and most municipalities countywide, private parties are prohibited from using fireworks. However, they’re permitted in Blythe, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs and Indio, where so-called “safe and sane” fireworks, certified by the state fire marshal, can be sold to the public.
The devices are mostly pyrotechnics that don’t explode or fly, including sparklers, ground spinners, fountains, snappers and caps.
Under county Ordinance 858, which was amended by the Board of Supervisors in response to an outbreak of blazes in 2020, fines for illegally storing, transporting or setting off fireworks can range from $1,000 to $5,000.
Any person who triggers a brush fire due to the illegal use of fireworks can be held responsible for all suppression costs.
Despite the potential penalties imposed by the county and cities, fireworks are routinely set off in large numbers by individuals in communities and cities countywide every Fourth of July.