VICTORVILLE – The City of Victorville announced July 2, that it has stepped up its enforcement efforts to target the sale of illegal fireworks both online and in person.
Successful busts for sales and possession have resulted in fines of up to $50,000 being assessed in three recent cases involving Victorville businesses and residents.
All fireworks, even those labeled “safe and sane” are illegal in Victorville because of their threat to public safety.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, on a typical 4th of July, fireworks cause more fires in the U.S. than all other causes combined.
In addition to fires, fireworks cause deaths, blindness, maiming injuries to children and adults, re-traumatize war veterans suffering from PTSD, and frighten household pets.
Fines collected through property liens and income tax intercepts
The city said three recent Victorville cases involved illegal fireworks sales – online, at a home and at a business.
All three of the parties involved, including a resident and two business owners, were cited and issued fines of up to $50,000 each. The fines are being collected through various means, including property liens and income tax intercepts.
City officials are receiving complaints regarding illegal online fireworks sales. They are actively searching various social media sites and online selling platforms to investigate.
Officials say they are aware that sellers try to mask their fireworks sales by using unique search words.
Businesses that engage in the sale of illegal fireworks may lose license
The city adds that fines for illegal fireworks are also being issued during Code Enforcement actions, DUI checkpoints and probation checks.
Victorville businesses engaged in the sale of illegal fireworks risk losing their city business license.
Individuals found in possession of more than 100 pounds of fireworks can be charged with a felony and face jail time. Civil fines ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 will be issued.
According to Victorville Municipal Code, a $1,000 fine can be assessed per firework device. The fine increases to $2,000 for the second offense within six months; and for a third offense within six months, the fine increases to $3,000.
Fire station drop off
Individuals in possession of fireworks can avoid the risk of fines and criminal charges by dropping off their fireworks at any Victorville Fire Station anonymously.
Citizens are encouraged to report fireworks sales and activity anonymously to the City of Victorville at vv.city/reportfireworks. City officials say the detailed reports received from community members increase the effectiveness of their enforcement efforts.
