New laws becoming effective on Saturday, Jan. 12, will further restrict sale and use of fireworks in Riverbank, imposing local penalties for any violation.

The new chapter of the City Municipal Code includes revisions to the Fireworks Sale and Discharge section, limiting dates of sales and discharge of ‘safe and sane’ fireworks. It also provides regulations for enforcing local citations and fines for possession, use, storage, sale and/or display of 25 pounds or less of illegal, “dangerous” fireworks.

Reportedly, the measure is the council’s response to the many “community concerns on the nuisance of noise and the increase of calls to Police Services, the increase of lost pets or barking dogs, and the prevention of harm to people or property,” including the increased risk of causing a fire.

The measure goes into effect on Saturday, late for the recent New Year’s activity, but 30 days after the measure was adopted, on Dec. 11, 2018.

There are increased administrative penalties, fines, plus potential late charges, which are subject to interest accrual for nonpayment, officials said.

“Dangerous Fireworks” can result in fines imposed ranging from $1,000 to $4,000.

Any ‘Safe and Sane Fireworks’ sold without a permit or discharge of permitted legal fireworks during times outside of designated hours or locations can acquire fines ranging from $250 to $1,050.

Failure to obtain a “Block Party Permit” can accrue fines of $500 to $2,000. A fireworks violation at a Block Party can result in fines from $1,500 to $7,000.

Officials said there will be a no tolerance policy regarding the new laws, with no warnings issued prior to citations being issued.

The entire code can be viewed on the city’s website, www.riverbank.org.