SAN JOSE (KRON) — San Jose is hiking up penalities for using illegal fireworks.
The city council approved the hikes on Tuesday.
The first fine will cost you $500 and $700 for the second violation. And it will cost you up to $1,000 if caught for the third time.
The rules go into effect May 26 and apply to anyone who sells, uses, possesses, or stores fireworks.
Illegal fireworks include large bottle rockets, roman candles and sparklers, which can reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, fire officials said.
Sparklers are linked with 50 percent of fireworks-related injuries for children under 5 years old and 10 percent of injuries overall, according to fire officials.
The council also approved a pilot program that will add more enforcement in city neighborhoods from July 1 to July 5, which includes the Fourth of July holiday, when people are more likely to set off fireworks.
“As fireworks have become larger, more dangerous and more readily available, it’s important that we increase penalties and our enforcement efforts,” Mayor Sam Liccardo said in a statement.
“(Tuesday’s) action is another step we can take to address the dangers posed by illegal fireworks, and both deter and punish bad behavior,” Liccardo said.
Residents can also report any illegal fireworks through an online tool that will be available on the city’s website in the next few months.”
“Our fire fighters have seen too many injuries in children and adults as well as house fires caused by fireworks,” fire Chief Curtis Jacobson said in a statement.”
“We’re asking everyone to celebrate safely and enjoy Fourth of July fireworks at large public displays that are permitted and run by professional pyrotechnicians,” Jacobson said.
Those looking for more information on rules surrounding fireworks in the city can contact the Bureau of Fire Prevention by calling (408) 535-7750 or visiting the Fire Department’s website at http://www.sjfd.org.