Caught with illegal fireworks in SLO County? Get ready for a hefty new fine
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- SLO County enacted $1,000 fines per illegal firework violation as of June 19.
- Violators risk multiple fines, emergency fees and possible criminal charges.
- Officials will use drones, tech tools and hotline tips to enforce new measures.
San Luis Obispo County is cracking down on illegal fireworks this Fourth of July.
As of June 19, a new ordinance approved by the SLO County Board of Supervisors introduced stricter penalties for illegal firework use, instituting a $1,000 fine per violation for any illegal fireworks activity across the county’s unincorporated communities of Avila Beach, Cayucos, Creston, Nipomo, Oceano, Santa Margarita and Shandon, according to a news release.
Each illegal firework discharge can be treated as a separate offense, potentially resulting in multiple fines, according to the release. Violators may also be charged for any emergency response cost and firework disposal.
The ordinance aims to increase public safety and reduce fire risk by discouraging personal fireworks in favor of the region’s official celebrations, the release said.
“This ordinance was created to follow the mandate of our safety professionals at County Fire due to the increased risk of fires,” Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg said in the release. “At their request, the County has taken this difficult but critical step in safeguarding our communities.”
It’s important to note, parents can be held liable for any minors who violate the ordinance. Anyone who allows the use of fireworks on their property, regardless of their involvement, may be held liable as well, according to the release.
Possession or use of dangerous fireworks — those not labeled “Safe and Sane” — carries criminal penalties starting at $2,000, along with felony charges for possessing more than 500 pounds of fireworks, according to the release.
After any fines are paid, there is a formal appeals process available.
To enforce the rules, the county will concentrate its energy on the busiest areas, and will implement drones and other technologies to detect and cite offenders.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal firework displays to the SLO County Sheriff’s Office’s non-emergency line at 805-781-4550.