Fireworks
Despite warnings, heightened enforcement, and a citywide ban, illegal fireworks erupted across Richmond on the Fourth of July, prompting a surge of complaints and reports to police.
The Richmond Police Department received more than 180 calls for service related to fireworks on Friday, July 4, up from 111 calls reporting fireworks in 2024.
Complaints poured in from across the city, including North Richmond and the Iron Triangle, with officers responding to dozens of reports throughout the night.
Officers responded with extra patrols, security checks, and follow-up reports. In many cases, however, they were unable to locate the source of the fireworks by the time they arrived.
But police did make progress in some instances. The department reported that multiple citations were issued Friday night and that officers also confiscated weapons in connection with fireworks activity.
Before the holiday, the Richmond Police Department issued a public notice emphasizing the risks and consequences associated with the use of fireworks.
“Fireworks are strictly prohibited in the City of Richmond,” the department said. “Each year, nearly 2,000 children across the United States suffer injuries related to fireworks.” The department also cited the danger fireworks pose to pets, neighbors, and property. It stated that officers would enforce a zero-tolerance policy with an increased police presence over the holiday.
Despite those warnings, the sounds of illegal fireworks began several weeks back, but a large volley heard across the city at the stroke of midnight marked the start of the Fourth and continued past midnight the following evening. Police received multiple reports from streets such as 30th Street, Pennsylvania Avenue, and Barrett Avenue, sometimes more than once an hour.
Richmond holds an official fireworks show annually on July 3, but for years, unsanctioned neighborhood shows have continued to dominate the evening of July 4. All fireworks, including those labeled “safe and sane,” are banned in Richmond.
Richmond’s July 3rd celebration draws a crowd
Residents came from all parts of the city braving the wind and typical cold temperatures Thursday to partake of Richmond’s own, city-sponsored Independence Day celebration along the waterfront at Marina Bay Park, which, in a nod to the city’s uniqueness, occurs on July 3rd — or what has become
Linda Hemmila
In 2021, the Richmond City Council rejected an ordinance that would have made property owners and tenants liable for fireworks activity at their residences. Since then, the city has emphasized public education and encouraged residents to report illegal use and sales.
Maps of Richmond fireworks reports
Richmond police reported receiving 187 fireworks-related calls on July 4, 2025. This map shows many of the reported locations, though not all calls included location data.
As of Saturday morning, authorities had not released information about any injuries or arrests connected to fireworks. Police said enforcement efforts would continue through the weekend.
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