San Jose Standard

As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the San José Fire Department seeks community assistance to prevent injuries and fires caused by illegal fireworks. The department urges residents to report any illegal firework activity they observe.

Residents are encouraged to take a photo or video of individuals using illegal fireworks if it is safe to do so. Reports can be submitted through www.sanjoseca.gov/fireworks, the 3-1-1 website, or via the mobile app on smartphones. Detailed online reports will aid the City of San José in taking enforcement actions.

All fireworks, including those labeled 'safe and sane,' are prohibited in San José. Fines for using illegal fireworks start at $1,000, and selling them can result in penalties up to $50,000 plus jail time, depending on the quantity involved. Under San José’s Social Host Ordinance, property owners and hosts of gatherings where illegal fireworks are used will be held accountable for emergency response costs. Additionally, attendees knowingly watching an illegal fireworks display may also face fines.

Over the past four Independence Day holidays, San José experienced approximately 157 fireworks-related fires, with 34 occurring last year alone. These incidents resulted in property and environmental damage and were deemed entirely preventable. In 2022, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that 10,200 people were treated in emergency rooms and 11 fatalities occurred due to illegal fireworks across the country.

The public is urged to help prevent injuries and damage this Fourth of July by avoiding illegal firework use. A social media toolkit with graphics and sample safety messages is available on the City’s fireworks webpage for those who wish to promote safety.

In case of an active fire or medical emergency, residents should call 9-1-1 immediately.