“Fireworks are illegal in Riverside County,” stressed County Fire Chief Daniel Talbot at a press conference last week. “Except for certain cities, they are prohibited in all other areas of the county.”
Fireworks may be bought and used in the following cities: Blythe, Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs and Indio.
Riverside County Sheriff Stan Sniff reinforced Talbot’s warning that use of fireworks in county areas can result in confiscation and possibly arrest.
On the Fourth of July, nearly two out of every five calls to the Sheriff’s Department are about illegal use of fireworks, according to Sniff. Responding to these calls delays responses to serious needs.
Sniff also warned that when guns are shot into the air, the bullets come down and can cause damage, “That’s a violation,” he added.
“The District Attorney stands behind law enforcement. It’s illegal to have fireworks in Riverside County,” said Managing Deputy DA Stephanie Weissman. “If you are caught possessing fireworks you have purchased somewhere legally, but now you have brought them here where it is illegal, you will be cited and may be prosecuted. If you start a fire using these fireworks, you will be prosecuted for a felony offense.”
To report the use of illegal fireworks in non-emergency situations, contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at 951-776-1099 or 800-950-2444. If you have an emergency, dial 911.
For a listing of approved public, professional fireworks shows throughout Riverside County, visit the Fire Department’s website at www.rvcfire.org.
Click here for a list of area 2018 fireworks shows.
