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As the New Year approaches, the City of Paramount reminds residents that fireworks celebrations should not come at the cost of safety. Unlike the Fourth of July holiday, all fireworks, including those labeled “Safe and Sane,” are prohibited during New Year’s. The City is committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe by enforcing the law, educating the public and working together with residents to prevent the harm illegal fireworks can cause.
The risks associated with illegal fireworks are very real, no matter the time of year. According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s 2024 Fireworks Incident and Fire Loss Report, fireworks caused 142 fires, including 121 that were sparked by illegal fireworks. Fireworks-related damages within the county reached $906,020, a dramatic increase from $92,800 in 2023. Fireworks also sparked 100 vegetation fires that burned nearly 175 acres, and 35 people suffered serious, life-altering injuries. While most injuries and fires happened around the Fourth of July, they are not accidents; they are preventable tragedies.
Beyond physical damage, illegal fireworks also take a toll on the community’s peace of mind. They trigger post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans, negatively impact individuals with sensory sensitivities, scare pets and disrupt sleep for children, seniors and families. During the Fourth of July, the City’s Public Safety Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Paramount Special Assignment Officers Team confiscated approximately 2,000 pounds of illegal fireworks and issued 112 citations. Enforcement will continue for New Year celebrations, backed by fines and penalties, to deter dangerous behavior, including:
$5,000 for selling illegal fireworks, which explode, fly or are altered
$2,000 for possession or use of illegal fireworks
$350 for unauthorized sales of “Safe and Sane” fireworks
$250 for hosting illegal fireworks events or using fireworks outside the legal dates
$100 for using any fireworks in City parks, where all fireworks are banned
Residents also play a role in prevention. The City offers rewards for confidential tips that lead to enforcement action:
$1,000 for tips on illegal sales
$500 for information on illegal use or possession
To report illegal firework activity, call the Public Safety Department at (562) 220-2002. Paramount’s goal isn’t to take away the celebration; it’s to protect it. For more information on firework safety in the community, follow the Public Safety Department on Facebook.
Keep the celebration lit, not the neighborhood.
