Menifee PD plans extra patrol for illegal fireworks

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Menifee City Council members this week received an update from the Menifee Police Department on its efforts to increase enforcement of the city’s ban on illegal fireworks this summer.

Lt. Denise Keith told Council members that the punishment for violators is a misdemeanor count and a fine of between $500 and $1,000 or up to one year in jail. This applies to anyone caught in possession, manufacturing, selling, transporting or discharging fireworks.

According to Keith, even “Safe and Sane” fireworks including sparklers are not permitted in the city. The only fireworks allowed is the city’s annual Independence Day celebration at Wheatfield Park.

“That week, you can hear fireworks going off all the time,” said Mayor Bill Zimmerman. “Could we have extra patrols, at least for that week?”

Keith replied that two extra two-man patrol units will be assigned July 3-4 for this purpose and a third unit might be added. Residents are urged to report illegal fireworks whenever they are seen or heard. In most years, illegal fireworks begin at least by the day of the Independence Day celebration, which is traditionally the Saturday before July 4.

Keith said Menifee PD plans to increase awareness of the fireworks ordinance with a social media campaign in the weeks leading up to the holiday. The department also plans to utilize an online reporting system and dedicated hotline for residents to use.

In response to a question about possible patrol with drones, Keith said the department is working on the use of drones as a first responder. Regulations require a line of sight between the operator and the drone, which can be problematic.