2026 Fireworks Enforcement Results

The City of Orange has released its final report detailing the outcome of a citywide public safety operation over the Fourth of July holiday. A coordinated campaign by the Orange Police Department, Orange City Fire, and the City's Code Enforcement Division resulted in $240,000 in fines issued for violations related to illegal fireworks.

The City of Orange strengthened its enforcement strategy in direct response to community concerns in prior years regarding neighborhood safety, the potential for property damage, noise disruption, and fire risk. This year marked the first year that the City used unmanned aerial systems (drones) to monitor high-activity areas for illegal firework activity.

Results and Outcomes

During the 2026 Fourth of July holiday season, a citywide operation yielded significant enforcement and fire prevention outcomes:

• Social Host and Illegal Fireworks Enforcement: Drones were used to capture high-definition video evidence of illegal aerial discharges, helping pinpoint 13 properties and leading to eight administrative citations totaling $240,000 issued under the City's new Social Host ordinance. One property owner voluntarily surrendered 26 aerial mortars in lieu of fines.
• Proactive Policing: Between June 20 and July 4, the Orange Police Department received 368 fireworks-related reports submitted through dispatch, a dedicated hotline, the Orange 24/7 app, and email. Patrol units throughout the City conducted directed enforcement resulting in an arrest for illegal fireworks and the confiscation of dozens of dangerous pyrotechnics, including 35 mortars, 12 Roman candles, and various firecrackers.
• Fire Safety: Orange City Fire inspectors completed safety reviews for all 12 city-sanctioned non-profit Safe and Safe fireworks booths. In partnership with Orange City CERT, 1,800 buckets were distributed to customers for the safe extinguishing of Safe and Sane fireworks. Sales generated an estimated $597,000 in gross revenue, a portion of which will directly benefit local high schools and community organizations.

The primary objective of this year's multi-departmental effort was preventative, with a focus on eliminating fires, reducing injuries, and protecting our neighborhoods. All fine revenues collected from enforcement efforts will be reinvested back into public safety initiatives. The City extends its sincere gratitude to personnel across Police, Fire, Code Enforcement, Public Works, Community Services, and CERT volunteers for their dedication.

While the Fourth of July holiday sees the most violations, fireworks enforcement and monitoring, along with public education, is a priority for the City 365 days a year.