GALT, CA (MPG) - As Independence Day approaches, the City of Galt reminds residents that illegal fireworks are not only dangerous, but they now come with much steeper penalties. These fireworks pose serious risks, including injury, fire damage, costly emergency responses, environmental harm and legal consequences for those who use or allow them.

The Galt municipal code was amended this June to make penalties for using illegal fireworks much more severe. Here’s what you need to know:

Each illegal firework is treated as a separate violation. The first offense will be a $1,000 fine and each additional offense will be another $1,000 fine.

Example: If you are caught with three illegal fireworks, the fine would total $3,000.

Possession of illegal fireworks can now be cited as a criminal misdemeanor, not just an infraction.

Liability for Emergency Response Costs

Individuals responsible for illegal fireworks may be charged the actual costs of emergency response services. These costs can total thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the incident.

Penalties now apply to property owners, renters or event hosts who knowingly allow the use or storage of illegal fireworks on their property, or on the street or sidewalk adjacent to it.

Only Safe and Sane fireworks are permitted within city limits. 

Safe and Sane fireworks are approved by the California State Fire Marshal; are labeled with the State Fire Marshal’s seal; are sold only at licensed fireworks booths in the community; and if a firework flies in the air, moves across the ground, or explodes, it is illegal in California.