Santa Paula raises fines, doubles administrative citations for fireworks violations ahead of July 4

The Santa Paula City Council on Tuesday adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 103 of the Santa Paula Municipal Code and a companion resolution increasing administrative citation fines for fireworks violations, measures councilmembers and police officials said are aimed at deterring use of both “safe and sane” and illegal fireworks.

The action came after the police chief reviewed enforcement plans and public-safety concerns ahead of the July 4 holiday. “Please understand that no fireworks are allowed to be used here in the city of Santa Paula. That includes safe and sane and dangerous fireworks,” the chief told the council and viewers, adding the department will add extra patrols and work with Ventura County Fire Department.

The ordinance and resolution update the city’s administrative citation schedule and authorize the city to collect fees tied to response and disposal of fireworks; staff also said citations will be issued as administrative citations. City Attorney staff told the council that, if adopted, the ordinance takes effect 30 days after adoption and that administrative citation fines will double at that time.

Councilmembers said the increase in fines reflects the wildfire risk posed by fireworks in and near Santa Paula and the city’s interest in protecting residents, seniors, and people with post-traumatic stress. The chief noted that some fireworks — the more explosive kinds defined under state law — can result in misdemeanor or felony charges under the California Health and Safety Code and arrest.

Outcome and next steps: Council voted to adopt the ordinance and resolution; staff will publish materials and a public service announcement in advance of July 4 to explain the new enforcement posture and fine schedule.