Illegal Fireworks (Photo – Chris Humphrey)
Pasadena officials are ramping up enforcement ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, warning residents that illegal fireworks can lead to arrests, hefty fines and even prison time.
By News Desk
City officials said fireworks remain among the most dangerous consumer products and emphasized Pasadena’s strict “No Fireworks” enforcement policy. Under the city’s municipal code, property owners and tenants can be held responsible for allowing the possession, sale, use or discharge of fireworks on their property.
Violators face prosecution and may also be required to pay the costs of safely disposing of confiscated fireworks. Most fireworks violations are misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in county jail and a $1,000 fine. More serious violations involving larger quantities of fireworks can be charged as felonies, carrying penalties of up to three years in state prison and fines of up to $50,000.
Officials also warned that even hand-held sparklers pose serious risks, noting they can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and cause severe burns or fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, most fireworks-related injuries are caused by “safe and sane” fireworks, which are illegal in Pasadena.
To enhance public safety, Pasadena police officers and firefighters will conduct special enforcement patrols before and during the Independence Day holiday. Officers will seize illegal fireworks and arrest or cite violators. Parking enforcement officers will also impound vehicles illegally parked in the city’s hillside areas on July 4.
Fire Chief Chad Augustin and Police Chief Gene Harris urged residents to celebrate responsibly by avoiding illegal fireworks, designating a sober driver, staying hydrated, supervising barbecues and swimming pools, and reporting illegal fireworks or suspicious activity to the Pasadena Police Department at (626) 744-4241. Residents can also report illegal fireworks through the Pasadena CSC mobile app.
Officials also encouraged residents to visit ReadyPasadena.net for emergency preparedness information and to register for Red Flag alerts and other emergency notifications.
The city reminded residents that fireworks can have a significant impact on veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder and others who are sensitive to sudden loud noises. Officials said unexpected fireworks can trigger anxiety, stress and traumatic memories, and encouraged residents to celebrate in ways that are safe, legal and respectful of the community.
Pasadena Humane is also urging pet owners to take precautions during the holiday, when loud fireworks frequently frighten animals and contribute to a spike in lost pets. The organization recommends keeping pets indoors in a quiet room, walking dogs before dark, leaving animals at home during fireworks displays, using calming aids when appropriate, and ensuring pets have current identification tags and registered microchips.
Anyone who loses or finds a pet is encouraged to contact Pasadena Humane at (626) 792-7151, ext. 998, or by email at Hello@PasadenaHumane.org.
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