Moorpark Police Department Issues Fireworks Warning

The Moorpark Police Department on Saturday issued the following statement regarding fireworks, noting all fireworks are illegal in the city of Moorpark:

The Independence Day holiday period brings annual attention to the dangers and illegality of fireworks products.

Generally, fireworks cannot be considered safe, especially near children.  Many fireworks products are illegal to use, or even possess in the State of California.  All fireworks are illegal in the City of Moorpark.

The Moorpark Police Department is concerned and responds to reports of the unlawful use or possession of fireworks.  Responding deputies will attempt to locate those using fireworks and, depending on the circumstances, may arrest any subjects suspected of being in possession of and/or igniting fireworks illegally.  Deputies may confiscate illegal fireworks as evidence or as contraband.

Persons found to be in possession and/or igniting illegal fireworks can be cited for possession and Illegal ignition of Fireworks, a violation of the Moorpark Municipal Code 8.64.010 All fireworks, as defined by California Health and Safety Code and the Ventura County Fire Protection District Fire Code (VCFC), including “safe and sane fireworks,” are prohibited in the City of Moorpark, with the exception of public displays which are authorized by statute and conducted by trained professionals.

Unlawful Possession of Fireworks is also a violation of California State Law, and can be a felony or misdemeanor depending on the circumstances.  These violations carry penalties ranging from fines up up to $1000.00 dollars to mandatory jail sentence and fines up to $5000.00 dollars.

suspected unlawful activity, and relate the specific information to police call takers.

Any incident that has resulted in a fire, or an injury requiring emergency response, should be reported by calling 911.