News Summary
Costa Mesa police conducted a successful buy-bust operation, arresting three individuals and seizing 1,339 pounds of illegal fireworks, drugs, and a firearm. The operation aimed to curtail the dangers associated with fireworks during the upcoming Independence Day celebrations. The city is enforcing a zero-tolerance policy on illegal fireworks sales and emphasizing safety regulations to reduce fire hazards and public safety risks. Costa Mesa residents are encouraged to adhere to local laws regarding fireworks use during the holiday period.
Costa Mesa Police Conduct Buy-Bust Operation, Seizing 1,339 Pounds of Illegal Fireworks Amid Independence Day Precautions
Costa Mesa police have announced the successful completion of a buy-bust operation that led to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of 1,339 pounds of illegal fireworks, drugs, and a firearm. The operation was part of a city-wide effort to reduce the dangers associated with fireworks during the upcoming Independence Day weekend, a time when residents often engage in celebratory displays.
The buy-bust operation was executed by detectives from the Special Investigations Unit, targeting suspects who were attempting to sell illegal fireworks online to undercover law enforcement officers. Costa Mesa has a zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of explosives that do not meet state safety regulations, specifically those deemed “safe and sane.”
In light of the holiday, the city is emphasizing its commitment to minimizing fireworks-related emergencies and enforcing local laws. During the Independence Day holiday, legal fireworks can only be purchased at city-approved stands between June 30 and July 4. These legal fireworks must bear a “safe and sane” logo as designated by the State Fire Marshal. They can only be discharged within specific hours: Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 10 p.m., and at a minimum distance of 20 feet from spectators.
Consequences of Illegal Fireworks
Possessing or discharging illegal fireworks is classified as a misdemeanor, which can result in fines of up to $1,000 or jail time, while selling them is considered a felony. To address the pervasive issue of illegal fireworks, Costa Mesa police have increased staff and patrols to monitor activity in the area. This proactive approach aims to address public safety concerns and the frustration expressed by residents over the disturbance caused by illegal fireworks.
Last year, Costa Mesa police received 336 calls related to fireworks, with 47 of those requesting police intervention. This number marks a significant decrease compared to the 668 calls received in 2020, indicating a potential shift in community behavior. However, the challenges with illegal fireworks persist, prompting law enforcement to maintain strict enforcement of legal regulations.
Public Safety Measures
In preparation for the holiday, Costa Mesa Fire Chief Dan Stefano and retired Police Chief Ron Lawrence have released educational resources to remind the community about fireworks regulations. Their message emphasizes the importance of adhering to laws designed to maintain public safety and reduce risks associated with fire hazards.
Recent data from July 4 and 5 in 2024 showed that emergency response teams in Costa Mesa dealt with multiple fire incidents. These events led to several citations and arrests for violations of fireworks laws, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with unused and illegal pyrotechnics.
The ongoing enforcement of fireworks laws is essential for maintaining community peace during this festive time. With significant risks associated with illegal fireworks, including injuries and property damage, Costa Mesa police remain dedicated to protecting residents and ensuring a safe holiday celebration for everyone.
The city of Costa Mesa continues to promote responsible use of fireworks while encouraging residents to adhere to local regulations to enjoy a safe and festive Independence Day.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Orange County Cities Approve Sale of Fireworks for July 4
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Police Seize Illegal Fireworks
- Wikipedia: Fireworks Safety
- Orange County Register: Fireworks Sales in Orange County
- Google Search: Fireworks Safety
- KTLA: O.C. Crackdown on Illegal Fireworks
- Google Scholar: Fireworks Regulations
- Orange County Register: Plans for July 4th in Orange County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fireworks
- Patch: July 4th Fireworks in Orange County
- Google News: Illegal Fireworks News
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
