3.10. Second Reading and adoption of an Ordinance of the City of Orange amending Chapter 8.13 of the Orange Municipal Code adopting rules and regulations regarding the sale, possession, and discharge of Safe and Sane Fireworks and amending sections of Ordinance No. 07-22 of the Orange City Fire Code relating to Safe and Sane Fireworks. Ordinance No. 01-25.
I am opposed to fireworks anywhere in Orange, but if it's too late to change that, at least there should NOT be fireworks in Old Town. I would think that the city would have a huge liability by knowingly allowing fireworks in a historic area built of old wood. I don't see how a "money raiser" is worth it for Old Town or any part of Orange. I believe that allowing fireworks is extremely disrespectful to our veterans. Do we as a city really want to bring their war experiences back to mind? That seems like a liability to the city as well - please consider that and don't allow fireworks anywhere in Orange. More could be said about the trauma to children, older people, dogs, and more. It's shameful to bring this on. The rush to get it on the ballot left many of us flat footed with no awareness that an "against" statement could have been added to the voting guide.
Orange resident since 1967
I am opposed to fireworks primarily due to concerns of fire safety in the neighborhoods. The number of trees and old dense housing in Old Town makes me nervous with fireworks. Additionally, although they are deemed safe and low risk, I have a cousin who lost an eye at the age of 40 due to a firework malfunction. Finally, even though fireworks are currently illegal in Orange, neighbors still use them. The amount of smoke produced by the fireworks contributes to poor air quality. My house smells like smoke on the inside every year. I live in an old house without ac so closing the windows is a difficult choice on hot summer nights. I do love fireworks at the Fourth of July and there are ample opportunities to enjoy professional productions that night and nights leading up to the holiday.
As a long-time resident of Orange, I wish to express my opposition to the sale, possession, and discharge of fireworks ordinance currently being considered by the council. Every year the dangerous nuisance created in my neighborhood and throughout the city by the discharge of illegal black market as well as supposedly safe and sane fireworks has escalated. We are subjected to three to six hours of extraordinary noise, smoke, and mayhem because a minority of residents feel as "patriots" they have a right to express themselves at the expense of the majority. Aside from the very real fire danger ( safe and sane fireworks can't cause fires?) the extremely loud and excessive noise and smoke are very distressing to many residents including the elderly, and the many dogs and cats who are emotionally traumatized by this disruption. I have COPD and the poor air quality caused by last year's fireworks made it necessary to use my inhaler inside my residence. There are many other opportunities for charities to earn revenue and there are other acceptable ways for citizens to express their patriotism. But we all know this display has little to do with patriotism and everything to do with who can make the biggest bang and annoy the most people. Please reconsider the ill-conceived ordinance and demonstrate your concern for the safety and comfort of the majority of Orange residents as you make your decision.
Thank you.
Gary D. Elsey
Family of Orange residents since 1956
Despite their name, there is no such thing as a safe or sane firework. Fireworks of any kind are a hazard to structures and an unacceptable burden on pet owners who have to spend countless hours reassuring and calming their pets. Please do the safe and sane thing here and oppose any sale or use of fireworks.
Safety. Pollution. Noise that upsets pets and veterans. This is not a method to support fundraising groups.
As you know, Old Towne is a historic district filled with wood structures, trees, and other highly flammable materials. The dense nature of the area, combined with a high concentration of homes and businesses, makes it an inherently risky place to allow fireworks—even those that are considered “safe and sane.” In addition, the noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be a real disturbance to our residents, especially with young children, elderly individuals, and pets who are already impacted by the commotion.
While I personally appreciate fireworks, I believe the reality in Old Towne is that the "Safe and Sane" variety are not necessarily the ones causing the most harm. The conditions here—close proximity of structures and trees, combined with a history of fire danger—create an environment where even small, seemingly harmless fireworks can escalate into a disaster.
What I find especially concerning is that, while the ordinance does carve out an area east of Hewes Street (as referenced in Item 8.13.130, Item A), there remains a significant risk in allowing fireworks in the rest of the district. I believe this is a risk we should not take, especially when alternatives are available to celebrate safely.
As you know, Old Towne is a historic district filled with wood structures, trees, and other highly flammable materials. The dense nature of the area, combined with a high concentration of homes and businesses, makes it an inherently risky place to allow fireworks—even those that are considered “safe and sane.” In addition, the noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be a real disturbance to our residents, especially with young children, elderly individuals, and pets who are already impacted by the commotion.
While I personally appreciate fireworks, I believe the reality in Old Towne is that the "Safe and Sane" variety are not necessarily the ones causing the most harm. The conditions here—close proximity of structures and trees, combined with a history of fire danger—create an environment where even small, seemingly harmless fireworks can escalate into a disaster.
What I find especially concerning is that, while the ordinance does carve out an area east of Hewes Street (as referenced in Item 8.13.130, Item A), there remains a significant risk in allowing fireworks in the rest of the district. I believe this is a risk we should not take, especially when alternatives are available to celebrate safely.
Living in an historic home, I have always been concerned with the potential fire hazard. Also, air pollution is greatly increased. There are safe and free locations for watching fireworks in the community as well as places without the fire hazard (e.g. beaches, etc.).
Here in the historic Old Towne district we are surrounded by structures and homes made of
vintage materials, primarily wood. We also have unseasonal Santa Ana winds. We also have palm trees that act as giant tiki torches in firestorms. We also have an aging population in our district, adding to difficulties in times of evacuation. We also will be adding a burden to our police and fire personnel staff, which currently are not at full capacity, to monitor the sales, possession and use of these fireworks. All this seems like a perfect storm and not very safe or sane. Why would you vote for this in our historic district? Ask the residents of Altadena or Pacific Palisades or Lahaina… need I go on, how their local governments would vote now. Please consider all this. Thank you.
As a resident her in Old Towne, I hope that you will consider this request to carve out Old Towne Orange historic district to be a safe and sane location for no fireworks sales or possession. This area is steeped in historical homes, and other structures of which many are made of wood which puts this area in a higher fire risk. With recent fire events, why would we want to subject our area to any unnecessary exposure and risk to our community members and/or property. Also, when giving out permits to certain areas of the City, I do hope that the fees gained by the city will offset the cost for extra firemen and equipment to be available during the time fireworks are allowed.
As you know, Old Towne is a historic district filled with wood structures, trees, and other highly flammable materials. The dense nature of the area, combined with a high concentration of homes and businesses, makes it an inherently risky place to allow fireworks—even those that are considered “safe and sane.” In addition, the noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be a real disturbance to our residents, especially with young children, elderly individuals, and pets who are already impacted by the commotion.
While I personally appreciate fireworks, I believe the reality in Old Towne is that the "Safe and Sane" variety are not necessarily the ones causing the most harm. The conditions here—close proximity of structures and trees, combined with a history of fire danger—create an environment where even small, seemingly harmless fireworks can escalate into a disaster.
What I find especially concerning is that, while the ordinance does carve out an area east of Hewes Street (as referenced in Item 8.13.130, Item A), there remains a significant risk in allowing fireworks in the rest of the district. I believe this is a risk we should not take, especially when alternatives are available to celebrate safely.
I respectfully request that you remove Old Towne from allowing any fireworks. With a majority of the homes being made of very old wood, lots of trees and close proximity to each other, the noise and potential for fire risks is extremely high. I am 90 years old and the noise of some of the fireworks almost gives me a heart attack. Yes, I know those are the illegal ones, but when you allow safe and sane fireworks, you're just opening the door wider for the illegal ones. If you can carve out OPA from this ordinance, you can carve out Old Towne. Why carve any area out if these are 'safe and sane'?
The ordinance for the exclusion zones for the city should include the Old Towne Historic district. It's just common sense. This still allows for the use of fireworks in the majority of the city and the city still has its revenue source.
As a longtime resident of Old Town Orange I am strongly opposed to fireworks being allowed in this area. Many of the historic homes in my area are constructed of wood so the potential for devastating fires is too great to allow fireworks.
I’m against fireworks being allowed. As an Old Town Orange resident, I am very concerned about the potential for fires. The recent devastating fires has made us all aware of the devastating consequences.
I am opposed to fireworks anywhere in Orange, but if it's too late to change that, at least there should NOT be fireworks in Old Town. I would think that the city would have a huge liability by knowingly allowing fireworks in a historic area built of old wood. I don't see how a "money raiser" is worth it for Old Town or any part of Orange. I believe that allowing fireworks is extremely disrespectful to our veterans. Do we as a city really want to bring their war experiences back to mind? That seems like a liability to the city as well - please consider that and don't allow fireworks anywhere in Orange. More could be said about the trauma to children, older people, dogs, and more. It's shameful to bring this on. The rush to get it on the ballot left many of us flat footed with no awareness that an "against" statement could have been added to the voting guide.
Orange resident since 1967
I am opposed to fireworks primarily due to concerns of fire safety in the neighborhoods. The number of trees and old dense housing in Old Town makes me nervous with fireworks. Additionally, although they are deemed safe and low risk, I have a cousin who lost an eye at the age of 40 due to a firework malfunction. Finally, even though fireworks are currently illegal in Orange, neighbors still use them. The amount of smoke produced by the fireworks contributes to poor air quality. My house smells like smoke on the inside every year. I live in an old house without ac so closing the windows is a difficult choice on hot summer nights. I do love fireworks at the Fourth of July and there are ample opportunities to enjoy professional productions that night and nights leading up to the holiday.
As a long-time resident of Orange, I wish to express my opposition to the sale, possession, and discharge of fireworks ordinance currently being considered by the council. Every year the dangerous nuisance created in my neighborhood and throughout the city by the discharge of illegal black market as well as supposedly safe and sane fireworks has escalated. We are subjected to three to six hours of extraordinary noise, smoke, and mayhem because a minority of residents feel as "patriots" they have a right to express themselves at the expense of the majority. Aside from the very real fire danger ( safe and sane fireworks can't cause fires?) the extremely loud and excessive noise and smoke are very distressing to many residents including the elderly, and the many dogs and cats who are emotionally traumatized by this disruption. I have COPD and the poor air quality caused by last year's fireworks made it necessary to use my inhaler inside my residence. There are many other opportunities for charities to earn revenue and there are other acceptable ways for citizens to express their patriotism. But we all know this display has little to do with patriotism and everything to do with who can make the biggest bang and annoy the most people. Please reconsider the ill-conceived ordinance and demonstrate your concern for the safety and comfort of the majority of Orange residents as you make your decision.
Thank you.
Gary D. Elsey
Family of Orange residents since 1956
Despite their name, there is no such thing as a safe or sane firework. Fireworks of any kind are a hazard to structures and an unacceptable burden on pet owners who have to spend countless hours reassuring and calming their pets. Please do the safe and sane thing here and oppose any sale or use of fireworks.
Safety. Pollution. Noise that upsets pets and veterans. This is not a method to support fundraising groups.
As you know, Old Towne is a historic district filled with wood structures, trees, and other highly flammable materials. The dense nature of the area, combined with a high concentration of homes and businesses, makes it an inherently risky place to allow fireworks—even those that are considered “safe and sane.” In addition, the noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be a real disturbance to our residents, especially with young children, elderly individuals, and pets who are already impacted by the commotion.
While I personally appreciate fireworks, I believe the reality in Old Towne is that the "Safe and Sane" variety are not necessarily the ones causing the most harm. The conditions here—close proximity of structures and trees, combined with a history of fire danger—create an environment where even small, seemingly harmless fireworks can escalate into a disaster.
What I find especially concerning is that, while the ordinance does carve out an area east of Hewes Street (as referenced in Item 8.13.130, Item A), there remains a significant risk in allowing fireworks in the rest of the district. I believe this is a risk we should not take, especially when alternatives are available to celebrate safely.
As you know, Old Towne is a historic district filled with wood structures, trees, and other highly flammable materials. The dense nature of the area, combined with a high concentration of homes and businesses, makes it an inherently risky place to allow fireworks—even those that are considered “safe and sane.” In addition, the noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be a real disturbance to our residents, especially with young children, elderly individuals, and pets who are already impacted by the commotion.
While I personally appreciate fireworks, I believe the reality in Old Towne is that the "Safe and Sane" variety are not necessarily the ones causing the most harm. The conditions here—close proximity of structures and trees, combined with a history of fire danger—create an environment where even small, seemingly harmless fireworks can escalate into a disaster.
What I find especially concerning is that, while the ordinance does carve out an area east of Hewes Street (as referenced in Item 8.13.130, Item A), there remains a significant risk in allowing fireworks in the rest of the district. I believe this is a risk we should not take, especially when alternatives are available to celebrate safely.
Living in an historic home, I have always been concerned with the potential fire hazard. Also, air pollution is greatly increased. There are safe and free locations for watching fireworks in the community as well as places without the fire hazard (e.g. beaches, etc.).
-- P Lee, 215 N. Cambridge St.
Here in the historic Old Towne district we are surrounded by structures and homes made of
vintage materials, primarily wood. We also have unseasonal Santa Ana winds. We also have palm trees that act as giant tiki torches in firestorms. We also have an aging population in our district, adding to difficulties in times of evacuation. We also will be adding a burden to our police and fire personnel staff, which currently are not at full capacity, to monitor the sales, possession and use of these fireworks. All this seems like a perfect storm and not very safe or sane. Why would you vote for this in our historic district? Ask the residents of Altadena or Pacific Palisades or Lahaina… need I go on, how their local governments would vote now. Please consider all this. Thank you.
As a resident her in Old Towne, I hope that you will consider this request to carve out Old Towne Orange historic district to be a safe and sane location for no fireworks sales or possession. This area is steeped in historical homes, and other structures of which many are made of wood which puts this area in a higher fire risk. With recent fire events, why would we want to subject our area to any unnecessary exposure and risk to our community members and/or property. Also, when giving out permits to certain areas of the City, I do hope that the fees gained by the city will offset the cost for extra firemen and equipment to be available during the time fireworks are allowed.
As you know, Old Towne is a historic district filled with wood structures, trees, and other highly flammable materials. The dense nature of the area, combined with a high concentration of homes and businesses, makes it an inherently risky place to allow fireworks—even those that are considered “safe and sane.” In addition, the noise and unpredictability of fireworks can be a real disturbance to our residents, especially with young children, elderly individuals, and pets who are already impacted by the commotion.
While I personally appreciate fireworks, I believe the reality in Old Towne is that the "Safe and Sane" variety are not necessarily the ones causing the most harm. The conditions here—close proximity of structures and trees, combined with a history of fire danger—create an environment where even small, seemingly harmless fireworks can escalate into a disaster.
What I find especially concerning is that, while the ordinance does carve out an area east of Hewes Street (as referenced in Item 8.13.130, Item A), there remains a significant risk in allowing fireworks in the rest of the district. I believe this is a risk we should not take, especially when alternatives are available to celebrate safely.
I respectfully request that you remove Old Towne from allowing any fireworks. With a majority of the homes being made of very old wood, lots of trees and close proximity to each other, the noise and potential for fire risks is extremely high. I am 90 years old and the noise of some of the fireworks almost gives me a heart attack. Yes, I know those are the illegal ones, but when you allow safe and sane fireworks, you're just opening the door wider for the illegal ones. If you can carve out OPA from this ordinance, you can carve out Old Towne. Why carve any area out if these are 'safe and sane'?
The ordinance for the exclusion zones for the city should include the Old Towne Historic district. It's just common sense. This still allows for the use of fireworks in the majority of the city and the city still has its revenue source.
As a longtime resident of Old Town Orange I am strongly opposed to fireworks being allowed in this area. Many of the historic homes in my area are constructed of wood so the potential for devastating fires is too great to allow fireworks.
I oppose fireworks being allowed. I reside in Old Town Orange and I am concerned about the devastating consequences of fire.
I’m against fireworks being allowed. As an Old Town Orange resident, I am very concerned about the potential for fires. The recent devastating fires has made us all aware of the devastating consequences.