Those Caught With Illegal Fireworks Face Fines, Arrests In Woodbridge

WOODBRIDGE, NJ — With July 4 right around the corner this Thursday, the Woodbridge Police Department issued a warning on illegal fireworkks:

Anyone caught using illegal fireworks in Woodbridge this week, and on July 4, will be arrested or issued a summons (have to pay a fine.)

Starting this week, Woodbridge Police will step up neighborhood patrols in an "unprecedented crackdown on the use of illegal fireworks," said Mayor McCormac.

Woodbridge Police marked and unmarked vehicles will be on patrol throughout the extended Fourth-of-July week and will respond to any location where illegal fireworks are in use. Additionally, the WPD will respond to any complaints or instances where the use of illegal fireworks jeopardizes public safety and will take appropriate action, including arrest of violators, issuance of summonses and confiscation of illegal fireworks.

Permissible fireworks legally allowed to be sold in New Jersey are limited to hand-held or ground-based sparklers, snakes and glowworms, smoke devices and trick noisemakers, including party poppers, snappers and drop pops.

The sale, possession and use of all other fireworks (including firecrackers, roman candles, M80’s, cherry bombs, salutes, and ground-to-air fireworks) is a fourth-degree crime if the person sells, offers or exposes for sale, or possesses with intent to sell, any fireworks and is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and/or up to 18 months in jail.

Residents are encourage to report the illegal use of fireworks by contacting the WPD at 732-634-7700.