June 27, 2017 – This Fourth of July, the Redlands Fire Department and the City of Redlands encourages residents to celebrate the nation’s Independence Day with others at the fireworks show at the University of Redlands Ted Runner Stadium or one of the many other fireworks displays offered throughout the region.

All other fireworks – including so-called “safe and sane” fireworks – are illegal in the City of Redlands.

While fireworks have been prohibited for many years within the City limits, with fines of up to $1,000 per violation, on March 21, 2017, the City Council updated the City’s ordinance to hold property owners, guardians and tenants also liable for costs associated with public safety response to fireworks calls. Under state law it is also illegal for adults to supply fireworks to minors.

The amended ordinance holds property owners liable for the sale, use or discharge of fireworks on the property. Guardians may be held responsible for the cost of responding when minors violate the law. Costs may include salaries and benefits of law enforcement, firefighting or other personnel for the time spent handling the call; medical treatment for safety personnel injured responding to fireworks calls; costs of repair or replacement of public safety equipment; and the cost of disposal of confiscated fireworks.

More than 16,000 fires and almost 9,000 emergency room visits are associated with fireworks nationally each year, at a cost of more than $100 million. Between $15 million and $20 million in property loss occurs every year due to fireworks.

Residents who wish to report the use of illegal fireworks may call Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681, ext. 1, or call 911 in the case of emergency. Residents should provide as much detail as possible, including exact addresses when possible.

The City of Redlands Fourth of July celebration includes activities in Sylvan Park beginning at 9 a.m., with live entertainment throughout the day. The Fourth of July Parade begins at 10:30 a.m.

Gates at the University of Redlands Ted Runner Stadium will open by 6 p.m. with live entertainment and opening ceremonies beginning at 7 p.m. The fireworks show begins approximately 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the gate. Children under 3 years old are free. Tickets are available at the Redlands City Clerk’s Office, 35 Cajon St., Suite 4 and other locations.