Sacramento County Code Enforcement saw major success in its 2025 efforts to crack down on illegal fireworks, issuing more than twice as many penalties as the previous year despite receiving fewer complaints.
From mid-June through July, Code Enforcement received 774 complaints about illegal fireworks—a 26% decrease from 2024. Even with fewer reports, the division issued 72 penalties, up 112% from the year before. Officers also sent 189 warning letters and completed more than 840 follow-ups with residents, nearly doubling community engagement from 2024.
A key factor in this success was a new emphasis on gathering stronger evidence from residents. By working directly with complainants, Code Enforcement was able to turn previously unactionable complaints into enforceable cases.
Technology also played a major role. In partnership with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office and Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, Code Enforcement used drones to identify violators in real time. Drone operations alone led to nearly one-third of all penalties issued.
“These results show that collaboration, technology, and community involvement make a real difference in reducing illegal fireworks,” said Taylor Parker, Senior Code Enforcement Officer. “Every penalty issued sends a clear message: fireworks are dangerous, and those who use them illegally will be held accountable.”
Code Enforcement will continue working with County partners to expand drone coverage, improve evidence collection, and strengthen public education ahead of the 2026 fireworks season.