As the late spring and summer season of outdoor celebrations gets going, Pasadena officials warned of potentially harsh penalties for violating the fireworks ban.
Anyone who violates the city’s ordinance or state laws prohibiting fireworks is subject to arrest, impounded vehicles, up to a year in jail and a fine up to $50,000.
“Statistics show that fireworks are among the most dangerous of all consumer products,” according to a city statement. “The city maintains a very strict enforcement policy for fireworks, and Pasadena’s municipal code holds property owners and tenants responsible for permitting the possession, sale, usage, or discharge of fireworks on their property. The ordinance allows for the prosecution of fireworks-related offenses and for the demand of payment for all costs associated with the safe disposal of confiscated fireworks.”
Even hand-held sparklers, which many consider safe, can get as hot as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and result in burns or fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, most injuries related to fireworks involve the “safe and sane” variety, which are illegal in Pasadena.
Officials urged the public to report illegal fireworks to the Pasadena Police Department by calling 626-744-4241 or using the City Service Center mobile app Pasadena CSC.
Police and firefighters are set to do combined patrols before and during the Fourth of July holiday, according to the city statement. Officers will seize fireworks, and parking enforcement officers will impound vehicles illegally parked in Pasadena’s hillside areas on July 4.
