Chino council delays vote on fireworks ordinance after nonprofits and wholesaler raise concerns

City of Chino staff asked the City Council on Feb. 4 to introduce an ordinance amending Chapter 8.12 of the Chino Municipal Code to tighten safety rules for retail "safe and sane" fireworks sales, but councilmembers delayed the item for two weeks after public comment and vendor objections.

The proposed changes would strengthen language about the responsibility of a booth watchman and would require wholesalers to pick up unsold fireworks stock from retail booths by 5 p.m. on July 5, per the version presented at the meeting. Sylvia Avalos, Director of Community Services, told the council the Community Services Parks and Recreation Commissionand its fireworks review subcommittee recommended the changes after an incident in 2024 in which an unattended truck and trailer loaded with fireworks was found in an area where fireworks are prohibited.

Why it matters: Councilmembers said they support public safety but heard widespread concern…