Las Vegas Police Crackdown on Illegal Fireworks Ahead of Fourth of July

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Las Vegas police are actively enforcing firework regulations to ensure safety this holiday season.

News Summary

In a robust enforcement campaign, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department seized around 5,000 pounds of illegal fireworks over a recent weekend. The initiative aims to enhance firework safety as the Fourth of July approaches, with officers issuing over 60 citations for illegal usage. Led by Captain Jonathan Riddle, the department is implementing various enforcement strategies, including surveillance and public education campaigns like ‘You Light It, We Write It’. These efforts are intended to promote compliance with local firework regulations and ensure community safety during the festive period.

Las Vegas – In a significant enforcement action, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department seized approximately 5,000 pounds of illegal fireworks over the weekend of June 20 to June 22, 2025. The initiative comes as the department intensifies its enforcement efforts ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, a time when illegal fireworks use tends to peak.

During this three-day period, officers issued more than 60 citations related to illegal fireworks usage. This is part of a larger strategy to promote firework safety and reduce the potential hazards associated with illegal firework use in the region.

Captain Jonathan Riddle oversees the fireworks enforcement efforts for the Las Vegas Metro Police Department. Under his guidance, the department has set up various strategic points around the valley for surveillance and enforcement against illegal fireworks activities. The enforcement measures involve traffic stops, home visits, and targeted patrols to ensure compliance with the law.

As the Fourth of July approaches, the police department is actively promoting a campaign titled “You Light It, We Write It.” This program aims to increase community awareness of firework regulations and enhance safety during this peak season for firework use. It reminds residents that only “Safe & Sane” fireworks are permitted for use from June 28 to July 4 in Clark County, ensuring compliance with local laws.

Residents can purchase “Safe & Sane” fireworks from 102 legal firework booths in Clark County and 64 booths within the City of Las Vegas during the legal period. Illegal fireworks, on the other hand, can lead to heavy fines ranging from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $10,000 depending on the quantity confiscated. For instance, possessing over 100 pounds of illegal fireworks incurs a fine of $5,000.

In an organized effort to prevent illegal fireworks from being brought into Clark County from neighboring areas, there is increased police presence at the Clark County Line. The police department is dedicated to maintaining safety and minimizing the fire risks posed by illegal fireworks, especially during the dry climate of Las Vegas that heightens these dangers during the summer months.

On July 4, law enforcement will be on heightened alert, with officers working 12-hour shifts across the area to monitor and respond to incidents of illegal fireworks use. Community members are encouraged to participate in reporting any illegal firework activity through the online ISpy fireworks database, a tool designed to collect complaints and identify problematic areas for future policing efforts.

In addition to police patrols, firefighters will also assist law enforcement in the confiscation of illegal fireworks. The need for these comprehensive measures stems from the understanding that illegal fireworks not only disrupt communities but can also harm the environment and pose risks to vulnerable populations, such as veterans and pets.

The enforcement strategies employed by the Las Vegas Metro Police Department represent a proactive approach to ensuring a safe and celebratory Independence Day for all residents. By prioritizing community safety and enforcing regulations, law enforcement aims to minimize risks associated with illegal fireworks and promote responsible firework use during this festive period.