Wondering what fireworks are legal in Stanislaus County? Here’s what’s fine for fourth of July
As Independence Day is celebrated in Stanislaus County, local officials once again are warning of the risks to public safety and the environment and the legal consequences of using certain fireworks.
Illegal fireworks can result in injury, death, fires, fines and arrests.
What’s legal and what’s not?
All fireworks vendors in the city of Modesto must obtain a so-called safe and sane fireworks sales permit from a city fire official.
Illegal fireworks, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, include skyrockets, bottle rockets, Roman candles, aerial shells and firecrackers.
Typically, any nonprofessional fireworks that launch into the air are illegal. But, nonaerial fireworks such as M-80s also are illegal because of their explosive potential — the equivalent to a quarter-stick of dynamite, said Lt. Dave Mullins with the Sheriff’s Office.
“We want to ensure all of our community has a safe and enjoyable holiday celebrating our nation’s independence,” reads a Modesto Police Department post on Facebook. “There are several area aerial fireworks shows, or even drone shows, you can attend to celebrate.”
The Modesto Bee previously reported a list of regional fireworks shows, including the Fireworks-on-the-Water celebration to be held July 6 at Lake Don Pedro.
The Modesto Police Department said it will use its Sky 1 airplane to detect illegal fireworks set off in Stanislaus County. Last year, more than half of fireworks-related citations were issued as a result of Sky 1’s patrols.
Ahead of this year’s celebrations, 10 citations have been issued. Sky 1 assisted with three of them, according to MPD. The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office said its Air101 helicopter will assist with enforcement in its jurisdiction.
Fines for illegal fireworks are $2,000 for the first violation, $3,000 for the second violation and $4,000 for the third. Any more than three within a 36-month period could result in jail time, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
On June 26, MPD officers arrested a 34-year-old man accused of possessing over 580 pounds of illegal fireworks with the intent to sell them. MPD said the man agreed to sell fireworks to investigators through an Instagram account.
Officials ask residents not to call 911 to report illegal fireworks, unless there’s a related emergency, such as injury, property damage or fire. The fireworks reporting voicemail line can be reached at 209-525-7202. The designated email is fireworks@scr911.com. Residents can also contact their local police department’s nonemergency lines.
Fire danger
Last year, fireworks resulted in eight deaths and an estimated 9,700 injuries nationwide, according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission.
Fireworks are thought to have sparked a vegetation fire in Paso Robles on Sunday, which burned more than three and a half acres before it was extinguished.
“Don’t get burned, keep your family and community safe while using State Fire Marshal approved fireworks. Each year, Fire and Police respond to emergencies resulting from the use of fireworks including injuries and structure fires,” reads an MPD Facebook post.
Cal Fire recommends carefully reading the instructions on fireworks before use and to never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass. Further, keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case things get out of hand. Children should be supervised at all times.
Wildfires are more common during hot and dry weather. An excessive heat warning was issued for the Modesto area throughout the week. The temperature is forecast to reach 108 degrees on July Fourth.
How to Keep Pets Safe
Stanislaus Animal Services Agency offered tips to keep dogs comforted and safe while fireworks are being set. To minimize anxiety and stress, dog owners should:
Create a safe space — Set up a cozy spot with familiar bedding, toys and a few favorite treats.
Soundproof — Close windows, draw curtains and play soothing music or white noise to drown out fireworks sounds.
Use anxiety-reducing aids — Snug-fitting shirts, calming pheromone diffusers or natural calming supplements recommended by your veterinarian can help reduce anxiety.
Exercise and mental stimulation — This can tire your dog and make it calmer and more likely to handle stressful situations better.
