Authorities warn: Face fine or jail for lighting fireworks in South Lake Tahoe

According to the National Fire Protection Association, on a typical Fourth of July, fireworks cause more fires in the U.S. than all other causes combined. We have now reached the 5th anniversary of the devastating Angora Fire which ravaged our community. The large scale wildfires in Colorado and New Mexico should serve as warnings to us all. After experiencing a very mild winter, our area faces a dangerous wild land fire season. The South Lake Tahoe Police Department has increased its vigilance in enforcing state and city fireworks laws to protect public health and safety.

California has some of the country's most-stringent fireworks laws. Virtually all fireworks that explode, shoot into the air or move along the ground are termed “dangerous”, and are illegal anywhere in California. South Lake Tahoe City Ordinances control firework issues even further. Discharging ANY TYPE of fireworks, including “safe and sane” fireworks, is against the law in the City of South Lake Tahoe. This includes devices such as simple sparklers. There are NO types of legal fireworks in the City of South Lake Tahoe.

In coordination with our community Independence Day Celebration, South Lake Tahoe Police personnel will confiscate any fireworks and issue citations to violators. Most fireworks violations are misdemeanors, punishable by a fine of not less than $500 and/or a year in the county jail. Possession of larger style fireworks may be prosecuted as a felony. In the event a fire occurs due to the unsafe use of fireworks, the responsible persons are likely to face criminal charges and be held liable for damages.

Please help us to ensure this Independence Day weekend is safe and enjoyable for everyone.