REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: KERRI DONIS, Fire Chief
Fire Department
PACO BALDERRAMA, Police Chief
Police Department
SUBJECT:
Title
BILL - (for introduction) - Amending the Fireworks Ordinance, FMC sections 10-55602.2 to 10-55602.4, to add liability for "social hosts" and increase the fine structure of the fireworks ordinance. (Subject to Mayor's Veto)
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council to approve the proposed amendments to the FMC section 10-55602.2 to 10-55602.4 to add liability for "social hosts." FMC 10-55602.11 would be amended to increase the fine structure of the fireworks ordinance from $1,000 per violation to a scaled structure of $2,000/$3,000/$5,000.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Fresno, along with other California cities, have seen a significant increase in the discharge of illegal fireworks. In July 2021, the Fresno City Council suggested staff to work on a plan to address and deter illegal fireworks use in the City of Fresno. The proposed amendments to the FMC would increase the fine structure to $2,000/$3,000/$5,000 based on number of occurrences.
BACKGROUND
The Fresno Fire Department (FFD) and Fresno Police Department (FPD) respond to thousands of calls each year related to illegal fireworks discharge in the City of Fresno. Not only do we experience frustration and anger amongst the community due to these illegal fireworks, but we also experience fires involving both structures and vegetation. Due to the challenges associated with this City-wide problem, we have expanded our enforcement capabilities and resources in an effort to deter and minimize these activities. FFD, FPD, and the City Attorney's Office (CAO) conducted research into what other California cities are doing to address this challenge and have worked to create amendments that will assist us in addressing illegal fireworks. The proposed new fee structure will help offset the cost of expanding existing capabilities and resources.
FMC section ...
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