California police issue $100k in fines after using drones to catch illegal firework displays

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Over the July 4th holiday, Riverside, California, intensified its battle against unlawful firework use by employing drone technology, leading to numerous citations and substantial fines.

In unison, Riverside’s Police, Fire Department, and Code Enforcement teams took action. They handed out 65 administrative tickets, each with a penalty of $1,500, due to the use of illegal fireworks. To keep tabs on and record instances of illegal firework usage, small drones were utilized throughout the city.

Drones helped law enforcement gather live aerial footage, precisely identifying spots where fireworks were ignited. Every instance was scrutinized and confirmed before any violations were cited. Between June 27 and July 4, Riverside received over 500 service calls related to fireworks, which is higher than the previous year’s count, as well as more than 400 complaints through its 311 system.

Fireworks that are used illegally aren’t just annoying; they can spark big fires and lead to severe injuries,” remarked Fire Chief Steve McKinster from Riverside. Meanwhile, Police Chief Larry Gonzalez emphasized the importance of drone surveillance in detecting violations without putting officers or firefighters in harm’s way as it has become an indispensable tool for them.

The drive for tougher regulations arises following a string of hazardous firework-related incidents. The Hawarden Fire, Riverside’s most significant blaze ever recorded in July 2024, was ignited by illegal fireworks and resulted in extensive destruction. In June 2025, the Mandalay Fire ravaged more than 83 acres, triggered evacuations, and spread rapidly through the city’s dry vegetation.

Other California cities ramp up fireworks enforcement

Just like in other regions of California, similar actions are taken elsewhere. In Sacramento, penalties ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 are imposed for unlawful firework usage, and they’ve also developed public reporting mechanisms to combat infractions.

Based on accounts, an unlawful fireworks show in 2024 resulted in the property owner being penalized with a substantial fine totaling $100,000.

In various cities throughout the state, regulations have been strengthened due to increasing fire hazards, as high temperatures and arid weather create apprehension.

On the Fourth of July, instead of setting off fireworks, I chose to join my fellow Alaskans in an unusual yet thrilling tradition – driving our vehicles over a cliff! It’s a unique way we celebrate our nation’s independence.

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2025-07-11 23:18