3 Peninsula Fireworks Buyback Events Planned This Month

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — San Mateo County will offer residents three chances this month to turn in illegal fireworks for some cold hard cash.

The sheriff's office tested the program last year, offering a monetary incentive to encourage community safety and reduce fire risks by disposing of fireworks before July 4. Fireworks are illegal virtually everywhere in San Mateo County, except within the city limits of Pacifica and San Bruno.

The inaugural buyback event hosted in North Fair Oaks netted 400 pounds of illegal fireworks, and the sheriff's office reported fewer fireworks-related calls in the community on Independence Day. This year, the option will be available in more parts of the county.

"In its first year, our fireworks buyback program made a significant impact, leading to a greater sense of safety and well-being for our North Fair Oaks community," said Sheriff Christina Corpus. "Thanks to support from President Slocum and the entire San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, I'm proud to announce that this year we're expanding this very important program to our North County and Coastside communities."

The next round of buybacks will pay a higher reward, with up to $200 in cash available for turning in fireworks with no questions asked.

Here is the schedule:

• Saturday, June 15
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Location: Coastside Fire Protection District Headquarters (1191 Main St., Half Moon Bay)
• Saturday, June 22
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Location: Northern Branch Courthouse (1050 Mission Road, South San Francisco)
• Saturday, June 29
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Location: Sheriff's Office Substation (690 Broadway, Redwood City)