SOCIAL HOST
FIREWORKS
ENFORCEMENT
UPDATE
GROVERBEACH.ORG
Kristin Eriksson, Assistant City
Manager
Social Host Ordinance
GROVERBEACH.ORG
• March 12, 2025 – illegal fireworks enforcement update • Introduce social host ordinance – fines for property owners/tenants for discharge, sale or possession of illegal fireworks
• May 27, 2025 – Council adoption of GBMC Section 119.058 • $1,000 per violation
• Enforcement of fines pursuant to GBMC Section 37.015 – additional fine for “each and every day a violation exists”
2025 Enforcement
GROVERBEACH.ORG
• PD issued 12 citations
• 3 paid
• 5 on payment plan or made partial payment
• 1 dismissed on appeal
• 3 no response
• $7,487 collected (65% to State Fire Marshall)
• Over $128,000 outstanding fines
2025 Enforcement
GROVERBEACH.ORG
• Single citation resulted in up to $30,000 total fines • City paused notifications of accumulated daily fines in December pending Council direction
• Can pursue lien on property for nonpayment
• Civil citations review process not ideal for fireworks enforcement
• Initial review with Community Development Department
• No ability to reduce fines
Proposed Changes
GROVERBEACH.ORG
• Remove provision for $1,000 per “violation” and instead impose tiered fines:
• 1-10 fireworks - $1,000
• 10-20 fireworks - $3,000
• 20+ fireworks - $5,000
• Provide for late fees, not mandatory daily fines
• Allow City to seek payment via third-party collections • Modify review process
• PD initial review, City Manager appeal
• Allow for discretion to reduce fines
Questions?
GROVERBEACH.ORG