DATE:
May 20, 2025
TO:
Mayor and Council Members
FROM:
Rachel Molina, City Manager
BY:
Kelly Anderson, Assistant Chief, San Bernardino County Fire Robert Arrieta, Lieutenant Hesperia Police Station
Jordyn LaSarge, Administrative Analyst
SUBJECT:
Overview of the City of Hesperia’s Response to Fireworks
RECOMMENDED ACTION
It is recommended that the City Council receive, and file information related to City, County Fire and Police response efforts related to illegal fireworks.
BACKGROUND
At the April 1, 2025 City Council Meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Gregg requested a discussion item on firework fines.
The use, possession, or sale of fireworks within the City of Hesperia is prohibited under Hesperia Municipal Code Section 8.36. Per Ordinance No. 2020-06, Firework violations are classified as disturbances and are subject to multiple response fees. These fees are assessed starting with the first incident.
The current fine schedule for firework-related responses was last increased by the City Council on August 16, 2022, and is as follows:
First Response: $1,250.00
Second Response: $2,500.00
Third Response: $5,000.00
Any Subsequent Response : $5,000.00
Citation Filing Fee: $38 (charged to each response)
Late Fees: 50% of total due
ISSUES/ANALYSIS
Despite the ordinance, unauthorized use of fireworks continues to be reported within city limits. Since January 2023, a total of 31 citations related to fireworks violations have been issued. In response to the ongoing violations, the City has developed a communications campaign aimed at increasing public awareness regarding the prohibition and associated penalties for firework use. The campaign is scheduled to launch Memorial Day weekend and continue through July 16, with messaging distributed across multiple platforms throughout the community.
Illegal Fireworks Communication Efforts Include:
Social media posts
Radio ads in English and Spanish
City website updates
Bus shelter advertisements
Electronic message boards at key intersections
Movie theater advertising
Lobby display at City Hall
Geofencing or television ads (options currently being explored) Digital billboard along I-15
CITY GOAL SUPPORTED BY THIS ITEM
Public Safety - Ensure public safety resources adequately protect our community.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this item.
ALTERNATIVE(S)
Provide alternative direction to staff.
ATTACHMENT(S)
Administrative Fine Schedule
City of Hesperia STAFF REPORT City of Hesperia STAFF REPORT City of Hesperia
STAFF REPORT
City of Hesperia
STAFF REPORT
Staff Report to the City Council
Overview of City Response to Fireworks
May 20, 2025