The Livermore City Council has amended the city’s fireworks ordinance to include a social hosting provision.
Basically, it means if someone sneaks an M-80 into your Fourth of July party and blows out another’s guest’s eardrums, you can be held liable.
The social hosting provision goes into effect June 22.
According to Livermore police, the provision “holds the property owner or person in charge of hosting a gathering where fireworks are being discharged liable for their guests’ actions on their property. The provision applies when the guest using the fireworks cannot be identified.”
“This ordinance … will be an additional tool for law enforcement to deter people from hosting gatherings where fireworks are being discharged and to help keep our community safe. …”
Police Chief Jeramy Young
Police can use their own observations, witness statements and other information to issue an administrative citation with a fine of up to $500. Additional penalties could also include the cost of the police response.
“This ordinance will not eliminate the illegal use of fireworks in the city,” said Livermore Police Chief Jeramy Young. “However, it will be an additional tool for law enforcement to deter people from hosting gatherings where fireworks are being discharged and to help keep our community safe. This action was taken to help reduce a common complaint from our community.”
Police said the previous ordinance was challenging for law enforcement because the fireworks had to be discharged in the officer’s presence.
The department said it receives hundreds of fireworks complaints each year, especially around July 4. All fireworks including “safe and sane” fireworks are illegal to sell, possess or discharge in Livermore.
Police want to remind people that fireworks can cause fires, injuries, and noise concerns. Firework-related calls also tie up resources that could be used for emergencies.
Livermore police will conduct proactive patrols for illegal fireworks July 4.