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Fullerton council fast-tracks stricter illegal-fireworks rules, raises fines
Summary
The City Council adopted an urgency ordinance and a regular ordinance amending Fullerton Municipal Code chapter 7.26 to expand enforcement, create parental liability, and increase administrative fines for illegal fireworks (first offense $3,000; second $5,000; third $7,000).
The Fullerton City Council on June 17 introduced and adopted an urgency ordinance and a regular ordinance to tighten rules and penalties for illegal fireworks ahead of July 4.
Fire-department staff told the council the amendments to chapter 7.26 would make hosts—people at or controlling premises where fireworks are discharged—liable when fireworks can be shown to originate from their property, create parental liability for minors who set off fireworks, and increase administrative fines to $3,000 for a first offense, $5,000 for a second and $7,000 for a third. Staff said the changes also incorporate a statutory requirement to reimburse the state fire marshal for costs associated with disposal and dispersal of fireworks.
“Given our proximity to wildfire-prone areas and the national statistics on injuries and fires, stricter enforcement measures are imperative to prevent catastrophic fires and protect residents and property,” a Fire Department representative said during the presentation, citing National Fire Protection Association data.
Several residents supported the ordinance during public comment, describing past property damage and safety risks. One longtime resident said she waters her roof before July 4 to reduce the risk that falling illegal fireworks will ignite her home.
Council members discussed outreach plans and enforcement mechanics, and the Fire Department clarified that officers must observe the act to issue a citation under state law. Staff said a press release and social-media messaging would go out immediately; broader notice (utility inserts or signage) would be explored if time allowed before the holiday.
By roll call the council approved the urgency ordinance (ord. 3344) and the regular ordinance (ord. 3345), and directed staff to implement outreach and enforcement procedures.
The ordinances include a CEQA exemption determination and take effect for the upcoming July 4 period.
