How late can my neighbor set off fireworks in Modesto? How to report violations
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Nosy Neighbors in Modesto
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The Fourth of July is still days away — but in Stanislaus County, the sound of fireworks has already begun.
For folks planning to celebrate, it’s important to know that not all fireworks are legal.
Even so-called “safe and sane” fireworks can only be used if you follow specific local and state rules.
From when you can set off sparklers to which type of fireworks are banned, here’s what Stanislaus County residents should know before lighting the fuse:
Which fireworks are legal to use in California?
In California, the only consumer fireworks that are legal to use are known as “safe and sane” fireworks.
These fireworks are approved by the State Fire Marshal and are marked with the marshal’s official seal, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
“Safe and sane” fireworks are generally those that do not explode or shoot into the air.
According to the state department, legal fireworks in California include:
- Fountains
- Fairy wands
- Sparklers
- Smoke sticks
- Snake-type fireworks
- Ground-spinning fireworks
Which fireworks are illegal in California?
Any firework that explodes, launches into the air or moves uncontrollably on the ground is illegal in California, according to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
Illegal fireworks in California include:
- Sky rockets
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Firecrackers
When can I set off fireworks in Stanislaus County?
City jurisdictions can impose their own rules as to when fireworks can be deployed.
In Modesto, residents are allowed to use “safe and sane” fireworks from 9 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, through 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, according to city code.
In unincorporated areas of Stanislaus County, residents can use, possess, store and transport “safe and sane” fireworks from noon Sunday, June 28, through 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 6.
Can I report my Modesto neighbor for using fireworks late at night?
In Modesto, setting off fireworks after 10 p.m. on July 4 is not allowed.
Residents can report fireworks misuse by contacting the Modesto Police Department’s non-emergency line at 209-552-2470, submitting a complaint through the GoModesto! app or calling Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636, according to the city.
If you are going to make a report, city officials said, have the address where the fireworks are being used, a description of what’s happening and any other identifying details.
Setting off fireworks after 10 p.m. is also considered a violation of Modesto’s noise ordinance, which could result in a citation of up to $500.
Other residents of Stanislaus County can contact non-emergency numbers “to report any incident that doesn’t endanger life or property.”
What are penalties for illegal fireworks use in Stanislaus County?
Authorities have already been cracking down ahead of the holiday.
Earlier in June, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office said, deputies seized more than 500 pounds of illegal fireworks and three firearms while serving a search warrant at a Modesto home.
Setting off illegal fireworks in Modesto can result in citations and fines.
In Modesto, fines for illegal fireworks start at $2,000 for a first offense and increase to $4,000 for repeat violations. Selling or manufacturing illegal fireworks can bring a $10,000 fine.
In other areas of Stanislaus County, penalties for illegal fireworks can start at $100 for a first offense and rise to $1,000 for repeat violations.
Violators could also face up to six months in county jail, or both a fine and jail time.
What questions do you have about living alongside Modesto neighbors?
Living alongside neighbors can be a challenge.
Whether your questions are about reporting violations or understanding what’s allowed, The Bee is here to help you navigate neighborhood issues.
You can submit questions directly to our reporters by emailing The Bee’s Angela Rodriguez at arodriguez@modbee.com, writing to our service journalism desk at servicejournalists@modbee.com, or filling out the form below.
You may be contacted by a Modesto Bee reporter.
