How to Avoid Blowing it July 4

Check back on Gilroy Patch to learn about enforcing fireworks regulations and how the continuing tradition of fireworks in Gilroy has helped local nonprofits raise thousands of dollars over the years.

While commercially available fireworks are illegal in the rest of Santa Clara County, Gilroy has remained a place where residents can light state-approved “safe and sane” fireworks without fear of a citation.

But if your plans include dazzling the neighbors with the “Big One” you had drop-shipped to Reno, save your matches: not everything is fair game, and even small fireworks used outside of the July 1–4 window could result in a fine. 

“The divide between the stuff that’s sold legally or illegally is huge, and it grows every day,” said Jacqueline Bretschneider, fire marshal for the city of Gilroy.

Allowable fireworks will feature the seal of the state fire marshal, she said. They will be available in Gilroy at one of the 16 licensed fireworks stands run by local non-profits starting July 1.

Any non-licensed sales, or fireworks lacking the marshal’s seal, are illegal, said Bretschneider.

“The rule of thumb is, ‘Anything that burns is allowable, anything that launches or explodes is illegal,’” said Sgt. Chad Gallacinao, spokesman for the Gilroy Police Department.

Using prohibited fireworks can result in a misdemeanor citation on your criminal record and a fine of up to $1,000, said the fire marshal. 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.

Only city residents are allowed to use the fireworks within city limits, and certain high-risk areas remain off-limits.

Aside from fireworks regulations, the city also asks that residents planning to hold a neighborhood block party fill out an application and submit it at . The application includes information about traffic control, traffic barriers and other rules, and it requires signatures from both police and the city engineering department.

“We want everyone to enjoy their Fourth of July, but we want people to be responsible,” said Gallacinao.

For those who don’t want to keep up with the rules, there’s always the no-stress solution: the annual city fireworks show at Gilroy High School on July 4 at 9:30 p.m. Approximately 400 fireworks will light up the sky during the 20-minute program.

Common Illegal Fireworks:

• Cherry bombs

• Roman candles

• Silver Salutes

• M-80s, M-100s

• Bottle rockets

• Aerial shells/mortars

• Firecrackers

• Helicopters

Source: California Fire Marshal