Authorities Confiscate Nearly 1,000 Illegal Fireworks

Authorities in Gilroy confiscated nearly 1,000—35 pounds—on the Fourth of July, according to Fire Investigator Andy Holiday.

The amount was slightly higher than last year, he said, but much less than in years past.

“We’ve confiscated 10 times that much in years before,” said Holiday.

Enforcing the laws against illegal fireworks is difficult, authorities say. Unlike the sidewalk-staple “safe and sane” fireworks permitted in Gilroy, the illegal rockets and explosives are fired by people who often aren’t even nearby when they go off.

Holiday said that those who light illegal fireworks could be becoming more sophisticated, and investigators and police will discuss the possible change in behavior and ways to address it next year during a post-July 4 debrief, said Holiday. 

The state fire marshal will collect and dispose of the confiscated fireworks.

Using prohibited fireworks can result in a misdemeanor citation and a fine of up to $1,000, said city Fire Marshal Jacqueline Bretschneider. Setting off larger explosives like M-80s and TNT can result in either one year in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.

Even small flashes and pops fired outside of July 1–4 are illegal, said Bretschneider. An administrative citation for fireworks use, similar to a parking ticket, costs $250.