City Enforcing Zero Tolerance Fireworks Policy

The City is once again reminding local residents that fireworks are illegal in Pasadena.

Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin and Police Chief Gene Harris urge everyone to prioritize safety while responsibly celebrating the nation’s birthday.

The City enforces a “No Fireworks, Zero Tolerance Policy.”

Last year, Augustin told Pasadena Now that the Pasadena Fire Department seized 118 pounds of illegal fireworks and cited 23 for violations during July 4 celebrations.

According to a statement released by the City on Monday, statistics show that fireworks are among the most dangerous of all consumer products.

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.

Any person who violates the ordinance or any state law regarding fireworks is subject to arrest; having their vehicles impounded; serving up to one year in County jail; and being fined up to $50,000.

Pasadena police and firefighters are teaming up for special fireworks enforcement patrols before and during the Fourth of July holiday. Officers will seize fireworks in an effort to protect the public. Parking enforcement officers will ensure that vehicles illegally parked in Pasadena’s hillside areas on July 4 are impounded.

The City’s formerly long-running fireworks show America Fest will not happen for the second year in a row. 

The Rose Bowl Stadium instead will be hosting a soccer game on July 4. Only ticket holders will be permitted to park in the area, and parking will be strictly enforced around the stadium.

The City is reminding people to celebrate responsibly, always designate a driver, use sunscreen, wear a brimmed hat for shade and stay hydrated, always have someone tending the barbecue and watching the swimming pool when in use. Call 911 for all life-threatening emergencies. Call (626) 744-4241 for all other public safety needs.

If You See Something, Say Something, especially about illegal fireworks. The home, property or lives you save from fire, might just be your own.

Even hand-held sparklers, which many consider safe, are dangerous and can reach 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, causing serious burns or fires. National Fire Protection Association statistics reveal that a majority of fireworks-related injuries are caused by so-called “safe and sane” fireworks, which are illegal in Pasadena.

Help keep our community—our children, our homes and our property—safe from illegal fireworks. Call the Pasadena Police Department at (626) 744-4241 to report illegal fireworks and other suspicious activities. Residents may also use the City Service Center mobile app (Pasadena CSC), available on Google Play and the App Store, to report illegal fireworks.