SANTA PAULA — As residents begin to plan their Fourth of July celebrations, the City of Santa Paula reminds the community that all fireworks, including those commonly referred to as “safe and sane,” are illegal within the City. Santa Paulans are invited to celebrate in other ways and review the City’s municipal code pertaining to fireworks.
“While we have many reasons to celebrate in the coming weeks with family and friends, I strongly encourage my fellow Santa Paulans to avoid the use of illegal fireworks,” said Santa Paula Mayor Andy Sobel. “Fireworks can create unsafe and dangerous conditions for our entire community, and there are many other opportunities and ways to celebrate whether it be a family gathering or barbecue, outdoor activities such as biking or hiking, or attending the annual Rotary Club and City of Santa Paula fireworks display.”
The prohibition on unauthorized fireworks, including those deemed “safe and sane” in Santa Paula, helps to reduce wildfire risk as well as protects community members and animals who are sensitive to and could suffer trauma from loud noises. In fact, Ventura County Animal Services reports that the Fourth of July holiday is one of their busiest days each year due to illegal firework use. Alternatives to fireworks include glow sticks, bubbles and other similar party favors.
The Santa Paula City Council passed an enhanced fireworks ordinance within the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 103 in 2020 to strengthen fireworks-related enforcement efforts throughout the City. This action created a new fireworks ordinance specific to the City of Santa Paula and broadens the scope of liability and penalties associated with fireworks activity. It is illegal to discharge fireworks, “safe and sane” fireworks, firecrackers or rockets within City limits. Anyone cited or arrested for fireworks violations may be faced with a fine, sentenced to jail for six months, or both.
To report a violation, residents can call the non-emergency line at 805-525-4474 and select extension 0 or 2 or email policedispatchers@spcity.org.
It is important to note that the ordinance also states that any “Host,” which includes property owners, tenants, landlords, property managers or any person who organizes, supervises, officiates, conducts, controls or is otherwise in charge of the activity on a property, can be held liable for any response costs associated with illegal fireworks activity taking place in and around the property.
The ordinance allows members of the Ventura County Fire Department, Santa Paula Police Department and code enforcement personnel to cite Hosts without having to observe the illegal activity if sufficient evidence is provided.
Applicable administrative penalties for anyone, including Hosts, found in violation of the municipal code can range from $500 to $1,000. Should fireworks be confiscated, disposal fees may also be added to the previously cited administrative fee. Residents can review the full text of Municipal Code Chapter 103 online.
The Santa Paula Rotary Club is sponsoring this year’s Fireworks Celebration, which has been a City tradition for many years. “This free event has consistently mesmerized spectators with its breathtaking firework displays, and The Santa Paula Rotary Club is honored to be the catalyst in supporting this remarkable event, bringing joy and a sense of togetherness to our community on the Fourth of July,” said former Mayor and Rotary Club Member Ginger Gherardi. The fireworks display will take place at Harding Park and begin at 9 p.m. on July 4th; however, spectators are welcome to start entering the fields around 5 p.m.