Illegal Fireworks In Palm Desert: How To Report Them

PALM DESERT, CA — Due to extreme wildfire risks amid drought conditions, authorities have vowed to crack down harder on people who shoot off illegal fireworks this 2021 Fourth of July weekend.

In addition to higher citation fees for many areas — and possible jail time — anyone who causes a fire due to illegal fireworks will be forced to pay the costs of suppression and damages, which can total millions of dollars, according to authorities.

Fireworks are illegal throughout Riverside County. The four exceptions are the desert cities of Blythe, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs and Indio, which allow only "safe and sane" devices, like sparklers and fountains, that don't shoot into the air.

Approved and permitted fireworks shows are scheduled in the Palm Desert area this July 4 weekend. See the list of locations here.

If you need to report illegal use of fireworks, the sheriff's department asks that you DO NOT call 911. Instead, use 800-950-2444 (Note: The sheriff's department also has an online reporting form. Find it here.)