California fire officials have seized over 100,000 pounds of illegal fireworks from a warehouse in Commerce, intensifying efforts to prevent fire hazards ahead of Independence Day.
At a Glance
- Cal Fire and ATF agents confiscated more than 100,000 pounds of illegal fireworks from a warehouse in Commerce, California.
- The seizure occurred on May 21, 2025, following an investigation into a licensed importer/exporter violating state regulations.
- California has reported over $4 million in property damage from fireworks-related fires since January 2025.
- Possession or use of fireworks without the “Safe and Sane” seal is illegal in California, with penalties up to $50,000 and one year in jail.
- The raid highlights the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal fireworks, especially as the July 4th holiday approaches.
Massive Fireworks Bust in Commerce
On May 21, 2025, authorities from Cal Fire’s Office of the State Fire Marshal, working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), raided a warehouse on Tanager Avenue in Commerce, California. According to NBC Los Angeles, the operation resulted in the confiscation of more than 100,000 pounds of illegal fireworks—one of the largest such seizures in state history.
Officials had launched the investigation after discovering regulatory violations by a licensed fireworks importer/exporter. The specific violations remain undisclosed, but the scale of the haul raised alarms about potential safety risks. Cal Fire Deputy State Fire Marshal Kara Garrett warned, “That’s a lot of risk just in a smaller condensed area. So one false move, it could just set the whole thing off.”
Watch a report: Cal Fire seizes 100K pounds of illegal fireworks in L.A.
Enforcement and Public Safety Measures
California law prohibits the sale, transport, or possession of fireworks not marked with the “Safe and Sane” seal. Violators can face fines of up to $50,000 and up to a year in jail. As DNYUZ reports, firework-related incidents have already caused more than $4 million in property damage in 2025 alone.
State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant emphasized California’s firm stance: “As we approach the 4th of July and a typical increase in usage of illegal fireworks, this seizure should be a reminder of our zero tolerance to illegal fireworks in California,” as quoted in NBC Los Angeles.
Though the city of Commerce allows “Safe and Sane” fireworks during certain periods, more hazardous types such as firecrackers and aerial rockets remain banned. This high-profile seizure underscores California’s commitment to reducing fire hazards and protecting communities, particularly during holiday seasons.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal fireworks activity to Cal Fire’s Arson and Bomb Unit to help curb the growing threat.
