Full Notification

For Immediate Release


Redwood City Police Department Increases Enforcement to Combat Illegal Fireworks Activity
 
Redwood City, CA – July 4, 2025
 
In an effort to protect public safety, reduce fire hazards, and minimize disruptions to the community, the Redwood City Police Department (RCPD) deployed additional resources over the Fourth of July weekend to address illegal fireworks activity across the city.
 
Fireworks are illegal in Redwood City due to the significant dangers they pose—particularly during the dry summer months. They have been known to spark fires, cause serious injuries, and generate an influx of emergency service calls. The use of illegal fireworks also increases the risk of gunshot misidentification, putting residents and first responders at further risk.
 
As part of a coordinated enforcement detail on Friday, July 4, 2025, RCPD officers took proactive steps to locate and disrupt illegal fireworks activity. The department also utilized their newly established UAS Team, better known as drones, to take to the sky and help officers identify the source of illegal fireworks. The operation resulted in:
 

• Approximately 65 warnings (often warning groups of people as identifying specific responsible individuals is challenging)
• 2 arrests (These involved serious mortar style fireworks as well as other criminal activity)
• 1 firearm seized during an arrest-related investigation
• 597 illegal fireworks confiscated
• 5 residences identified as fireworks sources
• 1 fire extinguished by the Redwood City Fire Department at an arrest location, caused by fireworks ignition

 
Chief Kristina Bell stated, “Our goal is not just to enforce the law, but to prevent injuries and fires before they happen. Illegal fireworks put entire neighborhoods at risk. We appreciate the community members who reported violations and helped us intervene before more serious incidents occurred.”
 
The Redwood City Police Department will continue to investigate sources of illegal fireworks and hold violators accountable. Residents are encouraged to report fireworks-related activity by calling the non-emergency line at (650) 780-7100.
 
For emergencies or active fires, please call 9-1-1.