Fireworks are the cause of thousands of fires and injuries throughout the United States on the 4th of July, as well as during the days before and after this holiday. These fires and injuries are preventable, when people comply with local laws prohibiting the use of fireworks. The International Fire Code adopted by the City of Redwood City prohibits any type of fireworks, including the so-called “safe and sane” variety. The only permitted use of fireworks is for professional fireworks shows.
Celebrating the 4th of July by shooting a gun into the air is not only illegal; it can hurt or kill people. The Redwood City Police Department uses a "Shot Spotter" gunshot locater system, which determines the location of any firearm discharged in the city. The reckless discharge of a firearm is a felony under section 246.3 of the Penal Code and carries up to a three-year prison sentence. A gunshot telephone hotline is available at (650) 780-7639, which the public is urged to call in the event gunfire is heard, particularly during the 4th of July holiday.
Redwood City Police and Fire staff will be making an extraordinary effort this year to be on the lookout for fireworks and gunshots throughout the 4th of July holiday period. Any person caught in possession of fireworks will have them confiscated and will be subject to a citation. Fireworks obtained in other jurisdictions may not be brought into or used within Redwood City. The Police Department will investigate and track down any individuals shooting guns into the air. Arrests will be made when possible and violators will be booked at San Mateo County Jail.
In California possession of illegal fireworks is considered a misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $1000 or by imprisonment in a county jail for up to one year. If you are found to be in possession of a sufficient amount of illegal fireworks, you may be guilty of a felony and punished by a fine up to $5000 and/or imprisonment in a state prison or county jail. Parents may be held liable for any damages or injuries caused by their childrens use of illegal fireworks.
Fireworks are illegal in most parts of San Mateo County, and other jurisdictions share Redwood City’s desire to maintain a safe 4th of July holiday. To fully inform the community of Redwood City’s prohibition on fireworks, all main roadway entrances into the City will be posted with a sign saying “No Fireworks in Redwood City.” The signs feature bright red letters on a white background to make them very visible to passing motorists. The City’s goal in this effort is for the community to have a safe, fun 4th of July holiday, and to prevent fire or injury incidents related to fireworks.
For the most accurate parking, festival, and firework information delivered directly to your cell phone text the keyword: RCJULY4 to 888777 and you will be automatically added to the Redwood City 4th of July information group through Nixle.com.
The Redwood City 4th of July Information group was created to provide specific, festival-related information to our residents, businesses and visitors. you can sign up for all alerts via text or e-mail by signing up at Nixle.com
The Redwood City Police Department wishes you a safe 4th of July!
