June 27, 2006 > Fireworks in the Tri-cities

by Julie Grabowski

The use of "safe and sane" fireworks is permitted only in the cities of Newark and Union City for Fourth of July celebrations this year. The sale, possession, and use of all fireworks is banned in Fremont, Hayward, and Milpitas; illegal use being subject to confiscation and citation.

Fireworks will be on sale in Newark from Noon to 9 p.m., June 28 and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. June 29 to July 4. They may be set off from midnight June 30 to midnight July 4.

Union City sales commence on July 1 and continue through July 3 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; on July 4, purchases may be made from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fireworks can be used during the same hours they are sold on the first through the third and until 11 p.m. on July 4.

Newark and Union City restrict use to residential areas; activity is not allowed in any city park or on a public street and is forbidden east of Mission Blvd.

Illegal fireworks include anything that explodes, rises into the air, or darts across the ground. Possession of these types of fireworks is an infraction punishable by a fine between $100 and $500. The same applies to dangerous use of otherwise "safe and sane" fireworks. Misdemeanors will be charged to those selling, transferring, or transporting illegal fireworks, with fines ranging between $500 and $1,000. Possession of quantities exceeding one pound of black powder is a felony with fines of $5,000 and possible jail time.

Members of the fire and police departments will be on patrol during peak use times. Residents are urged to report the sale, possession or use of illegal fireworks by calling 866-520-SAFE.