City promises $2K fines for illegal fireworks

DOWNEY – The Downey Police Department is reminding residents that anyone caught using illegal fireworks will be issued a minimum $2,000 fine. Second offenses carry $2,500 fines, and any offense thereafter carries a $3,000 penalty. Fireworks not purchased at a community sales booth – or purchased in another state, over the internet or from any other source – are considered illegal.

In Downey, “safe and sane” fireworks can be legally discharged July 4 between 3-10 p.m. Any firework that launches into the air, propels across the ground, or explodes is illegal to sell or possess.

Property owners can be held responsible if illegal fireworks are used on their property or if illegal fireworks are in the possession of others.

Fireworks are prohibited in all city parks and possession of any fireworks by children is prohibited.

Police officials said they have “zero tolerance” for illegal fireworks – or legal fireworks discharged illegally – and recommended residents consider Calvary Chapel of Downey’s Freedom Fest fireworks show at Downey High School.

The event is from 5-9 p.m. Admission is free.

To report the use of illegal fireworks, call the Downey Police Department at (562) 861-0771.

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Published: July 3, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 12