Information from City of Burien
The City of Burien wants to remind community members that the possession and discharge of illegal fireworks carries penalties. A “social host” ordinance is also in place, which places responsibility for the discharge fireworks on to the property owner where discharge of fireworks occurs.
The penalties are:
- $500 for the first violation.
- $2,500 for the second violation.
- $5,000 for the third and subsequent violations.
These penalties can be issued to individuals who either possess or discharge the fireworks as well as those who own or rent the property, even if they are not the ones handling the fireworks or even present at the time.
Please call (206) 296-3311 to report illegal fireworks.
“Every year there are individuals hurt by fireworks or a home is damaged or destroyed because of fire caused by fireworks,” said Chief Mike Marrs, King County Fire District #2. “We’re predicting that it will be hotter and drier than in previous years. Please take extra precautions.”
Beyond the risk of fire and injury, the loud sound of fireworks can trigger panic and feelings of anxiety for people experiencing PTSD as well as for wild animals and pets.
“We urge our residents to follow the law and not set off fireworks,” says Chief Ted Boe, Burien Police Department. “We will have extra police officers on patrol during the days before and after July 4th. If we see you setting off fireworks, you could receive an expensive ticket and have your fireworks confiscated.”
King County Fire District #2 is giving away a limited supply of yard signsencouraging community members to respect the fireworks ban. You can pick up your sign at Fire Station #28 located at 900 SW 146th St during office hours, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Moshier Memorial Park will be closed to the public on the evening of July 4th. The field lights will be on from 8:45 p.m. through 6:00 a.m. the next day to help deter people from entering sports fields to ignite illegal fireworks. The PaRCS Department’s seasonal security consultants, Homeland Patrol, will be monitoring parks on the evening of July 4th.
The City encourages community to celebrate July 4th other ways including attending Burien’s Independence Day Parade, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
