City reminds residents of new fireworks ordinance
New ordinance allows city to recover emergency response expenses
– The City of Atascadero is reminding residents that a new ordinance has been adopted to address the use of illegal fireworks and hold property owners and tenants accountable when illegal fireworks are used on property under their possession or control.
Illegal fireworks remain prohibited throughout the city. The ordinance establishes a Social Host Accountability Program that allows the city to recover response costs and impose administrative penalties on property owners, tenants, and hosts who permit illegal fireworks activities on property under their possession or control.
The city said the ordinance is intended to reduce fire danger, injuries, property damage, and quality-of-life impacts associated with illegal fireworks.
“Most residents want to celebrate responsibly and safely,” said Police Chief Dan Suttles. “This ordinance is focused on those situations where illegal fireworks create risks for neighbors, first responders, and the community as a whole. Our goal is education first, compliance second, and enforcement when necessary.”
Under the ordinance, property owners, tenants, and individuals who host or permit gatherings where illegal fireworks are used may be held financially responsible for administrative fines and costs associated with emergency response. The ordinance applies regardless of whether the responsible person personally ignites the fireworks.
The city encourages residents to plan ahead for holiday celebrations and avoid purchasing, possessing, or using illegal fireworks.
Additional information, including frequently asked questions and reporting information, will be available through the city’s website and social media channels as part of a public education campaign leading up to Independence Day.
Residents who wish to report illegal fireworks may contact Atascadero Police Dispatch through the non-emergency line at (805) 461-5051. Emergencies involving active fires, injuries, or immediate threats to life or property should be reported by calling 911.
