On Tuesday, the Richmond City Council will discuss increasing fines for fireworks within the City of Richmond.
According to the agenda item, the council will discuss a tripling of fines. If approved:
“Dangerous Fireworks” shall be as follows:
| # of Offenses | Amount of Penalty | Late Charge | Total Penalty + Late Charge |
| First | $1,000 | $75 | $1,075 |
| Second | $2,000 | $150 | $2,150 |
| Third | $5,000 | $300 | $5,300 |
“Safe and Sane Fireworks” shall be as follows:
| # of Offenses | Amount of Penalty | Late Charge | Total Penalty + Late Charge |
| First | $250 | $75 | $275 |
| Second | $500 | $150 | $650 |
| Third | $750 | $300 | $1,050 |
The city says Illegal fireworks pose a significant threat to public safety, particularly in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone areas, where the risk of wildfire is extremely high due to the abundance of dry vegetation and proximity to structures. Wildfires caused by fireworks can result in devastating property damage, loss of life, displacement of residents, and significant environmental harm. Fireworks also cause trauma to residents, pets, and veterans, amplifying the urgency to address this issue. Fires ignited by fireworks can spread rapidly, threatening lives, homes, and natural resources.
Increased fines would serve as a stronger deterrent against engaging in illegal fireworks activities in these high-risk zones.
According to the city, since December of 2018, although the Richmond Police Department received 4,577 calls for service regarding fireworks and only eleven (11) citations were issued.
The proposed ordinance amendment would support the Richmond Police Department’s efforts to monitor and address fireworks-related incidents, particularly during high-risk periods such as New Year’s Eve and the 4th of July.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks start over 19,000 fires, send over 9,000 people to the emergency room each year in the U.S., and cause $105 million in direct property damage.
The item has been brought forward by Richmond Councilmember Soheila Bana
Documents:
- Staff Report – click here
- Attachment 1 – Ord. No. 21-11 N.S., § 1, 9-20-2011
- Attachment 2 – Amended Chapter 11.05
Related
- Aug 14, 2024 – Oakley Police Issue 14 Citations for July 4 Fireworks
- July 10, 2024 – Contra Costa County Sees 30% Increase in July 4 Activity
- July 5, 2024 – 77 Fire Call Outs as Fireworks Takeover Night Skies in Contra Costa County
- July 7, 2023 – Contra Costa Fire Highlights July 4 Fireworks-Related Responses
