City Council Agenda
Memo to:
Manteca City Council
From:
Steven Islas, Fire Chief
Date:
March 3, 2026
Subject:
Informational Report on Safe and Sane Firework Booth Operations
Recommendation:
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Receive a presentation and provide direction to City staff on the City of Manteca's Safe and Sane Fireworks Program.
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Background:
The City of Manteca currently permits the sale of Safe and Sane Fireworks through authorized nonprofit organizations during the Independence Day season. The program is designed to allow community fundraising while maintaining strict safety standards and compliance with state and local laws.
Currently, the City allows fourteen (14) non-profit booths to operate and charges a $150 permit fee per booth, which does not adequately cover the administrative, inspection, and enforcement costs associated with the program.
Current Program Overview
* Eligible Operators: Nonprofit organizations meeting City criteria
* Permitting: Applications reviewed by Fire Prevention, Community Development, and Police for compliance with zoning and safety requirements
* Booth Safety Requirements:
o Noncombustible or treated materials
o Fire extinguishers and clear egress
o Secure inventory of State-approved fireworks only
o No smoking or ignition sources near booths
* Inspections: Fire Department conducts pre-opening and spot inspections during the sales period
* Enforcement: Joint operations with Police to deter illegal fireworks use; progressive enforcement for booth violations
* Public Education: Outreach campaigns promoting safe use and discouraging illegal fireworks
* Number of Current Booths: Fourteen (14) non-profit permits issued
Staff recommends the City Council give formal consensus for the following recommended actions:
1. Establish a Non-Refundable Application Fee: Implement a $35 application fee to be in effective 2027 for all Safe and Sane Fireworks booth applicants to offset administrative processing costs.
2. Increase the P...
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