SLO County town has new way to crack down on fireworks: ‘Social host’ fines
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Grover Beach adopted a social host ordinance targeting illegal fireworks use.
- Property owners and hosts face $1,000 fines per illegal firework offense.
- Ordinance takes effect June 27 to boost accountability and public safety.
Grover Beach has a new way to stop illegal fireworks use in the city this summer.
The City Council adopted a “social host ordinance” during its May 27 meeting that will help “hold property owners, renters and others accountable for the use of illegal fireworks at properties throughout the city,” according to a city news release.
The ordinance allows the city to fine “social hosts” — defined as property owners and people who rent, use or host a gathering on private or public property — for illegal fireworks use on their properties or in nearby public areas like sidewalks or streets, according to the release.
This does not apply to allowed “safe and sane” fireworks.
“This ordinance is about accountability and public safety,” Grover Beach Mayor Kassi Dee said in the release. “It ensures that those in control of a property — whether owners or tenants — are held responsible when illegal fireworks are used. At the same time, we’ve built in provisions to recognize when property owners act in good faith by taking steps to prevent violations.”
The ordinance is expected to charge violators a $1,000 fine per illegal firework set off — and there is no limit on the total amount of fines, according to the city. The violations would be considered a misdemeanor.
The ordinance is expected to go into effect on June 27.
For more information, read the full City Council staff report or contact the Grover Beach Police Department.
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