With Fourth of July celebrations approaching, the Ripon Police Department is asking residents to keep safety in mind and follow the City’s fireworks rules.

In a recent social media post, Ripon Police reminded the community that only approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks are allowed within city limits, and only during the dates and times set by the City of Ripon.

Safe and Sane fireworks may be sold and used in Ripon beginning at noon on June 28 through midnight on July 4.

Fireworks that fly into the air, explode or do not have the official Safe and Sane label are illegal in Ripon. That includes aerial fireworks, firecrackers and other explosive devices.

Police said the goal is not to ruin anyone’s holiday, but to help make sure residents can celebrate safely and respectfully.

Where fireworks can be used

Even legal fireworks can only be used in certain places.

Under the City’s ordinance, Safe and Sane fireworks may be used on private property, as well as on residential public streets and rights-of-way. They are not allowed in parking lots, vacant lots, open commercial areas or industrial areas unless the location has been approved by the Ripon Consolidated Fire District.

Residents are also prohibited from lighting, throwing or using fireworks on, over or onto someone else’s property without permission.

Adults must supervise minors

The City’s fireworks ordinance also includes rules for anyone under the age of 18.

Minors may not ignite, discharge or otherwise use fireworks unless they are under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian or another adult responsible for them.

Ripon Police are reminding families to use common sense during celebrations and to make sure children are closely supervised around any fireworks.

Property owners can be held responsible

One of the biggest reminders from Ripon Police is that responsibility for illegal fireworks may not stop with the person who lights them.

Property owners, tenants and others present at a property where illegal fireworks are being possessed or used may be cited under the City’s ordinance.

An owner who is not at the property may also face consequences if they negligently allowed the fireworks violation to happen. The ordinance does provide some protection for landlords and other owners who are not present and did not know about or allow the violation.

Ripon Police said they would prefer to see residents make responsible choices rather than issue citations.

Violations can lead to fines

Fireworks violations may be handled as either misdemeanors or infractions, depending on the circumstances and the City Attorney’s decision.

For infractions, the City ordinance allows fines of up to $250 for a first conviction. A second or later conviction within a 12-month period can carry a fine of up to $500.

The ordinance also classifies fireworks violations as a public nuisance. That means the City may take action to stop a violation and may seek reimbursement from the person responsible for costs associated with enforcement or cleanup.

Both the Ripon Police Department and Ripon Consolidated Fire District are authorized to enforce the ordinance. When investigating a possible violation, police or fire personnel may inspect a property. If access is refused, the City may seek an inspection warrant.

Find an approved fireworks stand in Ripon

Residents looking to purchase legal fireworks in Ripon can easily find an approved Safe and Sane fireworks stand. Our Ripon has a full list of local approved fireworks booth locations, including the organizations each booth supports, at: www.ourripon.com/firework-booths

Buying from an approved local booth helps ensure the fireworks being sold are legal for use in Ripon and gives residents an opportunity to support local nonprofits, schools, youth groups and community organizations.

Extra patrols planned for the holiday

Ripon Police said additional officers will be on patrol during the Fourth of July holiday period to respond to public safety concerns and enforce illegal-firework violations.

Residents are encouraged to be mindful of neighbors, especially young children, veterans, older residents and families with pets. Loud fireworks can be stressful for many people and can cause pets to panic or run away.

Fourth of July safety reminders

Ripon Police shared a few simple reminders for a safer holiday:

Use only legal Safe and Sane fireworks.
Keep pets indoors and in a calm, secure area.
Keep a hose, bucket of water or other fire-safety equipment nearby.
Stay away from dry grass, homes, vehicles, fences, trees and other flammable materials.
Make sure used fireworks are completely cooled before throwing them away.
Do not use fireworks outside the dates, times or locations allowed by the City.

Ripon Police are encouraging residents to enjoy the holiday with family, friends and neighbors while doing their part to keep the community safe.

Residents can read the full City of Ripon fireworks ordinance at: https://www.cityofripon.org/DocumentCenter/View/244/928-Fireworks-PDF