People caught with illegal fireworks face fines and arrest in Woodbridge

Starting this week, Woodbridge police will step up neighborhood patrols as part of an “unprecedented crackdown on the use of illegal fireworks.”

July 1, 2024 10:55 PM EDT | Update July 1, 2024 10:56 PM EDT

WOODBRIDGE, NJ — As the Fourth of July approaches, the Woodbridge Police Department has issued a warning regarding illegal fireworks:

Anyone caught using illegal fireworks in Woodbridge this week and on July 4th will be arrested or issued a summons (and fined).

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

Woodbridge Police Department unmarked and unmarked vehicles will be patrolling throughout the extended Fourth of July week and will respond to any location where illegal fireworks are being used. Additionally, Woodbridge Police Department will respond to any complaints or instances where the use of illegal fireworks endangers public safety and will take appropriate action, including arresting violators, issuing subpoenas and confiscating illegal fireworks.

Fireworks legally permitted for sale in New Jersey are limited to handheld or ground-based sparklers, streamers and glowworms, smoke devices and noisemakers, including festoons, clickers and drop pops.

The sale, possession, and use of all other fireworks (including firecrackers, roman candles, M80s, cherry bombs, salutes, and ground-to-air fireworks) is a fourth-degree felony if the person sells, offers, or displays for sale, or possesses with intent to sell, fireworks and is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and/or up to 18 months in prison.

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