Agenda Item Wording:
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Ordinance update –Council to review proposed amendments to Visalia Municipal Code Chapter 8.24, Fireworks, to increase fines for use of illegal fireworks, improve enforcement of illegal fireworks, and modify the application process for safe and sane fireworks booth permits. Presentation also includes information on a rewards system specific to the reporting of illegal fireworks use and/or possession.
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Agenda Date: 11/02/2026
Prepared by:
Corbin Reed, Fire Marshal, (559) 713-4272, corbin.reed@visalia.gov
Dan Griswold, Fire Chief, (559) 713-4272, dan.griswold@visalia.gov
Department Recommendation:
Staff recommends the Visalia City Council receive a presentation on proposed amendments to Visalia Municipal Code Section 8.24, “Fireworks,” as summarized in the staff report below and direct staff to return for a first reading of an ordinance to adopt the proposed changes. Additionally, staff recommends not pursuing a rewards system specific to reporting of illegal fireworks possession and/or use.
Summary:
Fire Administration is seeking to update and revise various sections in Chapter 8.24 “Fireworks” of the Visalia Municipal Code (VMC). The proposed amendments are to ensure consistency related to the administrative process for correcting violations and to modify the application process for obtaining a permit for a safe and sane fireworks booths to ensure booth permits are granted to the appropriate eligible organizations. Staff also provides information on potential ordinance modifications to current citation amounts, increasing the reward for reporting sales of illegal fireworks, and on the potential creation of a rewards system specific to reporting individuals responsible for illegal fireworks possession and/or use. A rewards system for reporting illegal fireworks possession/use is not recommended by staff.
Background Discussion:
Following the regular council meeting on July 20, 2026, Fire Administration completed a revie...
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