The City of Ripon’s fireworks ordinance may extend to owners, occupants, and others at or on the property where illegal activities are taking place.

As part of the Fourth of July celebration, residents can purchase and discharge safe and sane fireworks from noon today through midnight on Friday, July 4.

The use of illegal fireworks – Mortars, bottle rockets, and firecrackers, to name a few – often involves those on the property and premises, according to the ordinance.

“An owner who is not in possession of his / her property, and who has instead permitted another person to occupy the person (or persons) the property, shall not be convicted of a violation unless the owner was in fact present at the property during the time,” said the part in the ordinance under ‘violations.’

As for the fines, the first conviction in Ripon “shall not exceed” $250, with the second one within a 12-period costing up to $500.

By comparison, Manteca is now fining illegal fireworks offenders $1,000.

Manteca slapped 37 property owners with illegal fines last year.

“Our goal is to promote safety – not citations – so we ask for your cooperation in keeping celebrations lawful and respectful,” said the Ripon Police Department via social media.

Additional officers will be on duty throughout the holiday to address the use of illegal fireworks and any public safety concerns.

Mostly, they encourage residents to enjoy this time of year.

“The Fourth of July celebrations are a great time to have fun, spend time with family, friends, neighbors, (and) meet new people and enjoy amazing food,” said local police said.

The full city ordinance can be viewed by clicking on to: https://ca-ripon.civicplus.com/.../244/928-Fireworks-PDF