On July 5, 2025, The Beach Club plans to hold a professional fireworks display, only a few hundred yards away from the burn zone, despite the devastating events of the Palisades and Eaton Fires.

Los Angeles beaches are still reeling from the environmental damage, ash contamination, and hazardous conditions resulting from these catastrophic urban wildfires. Ongoing concerns about public health remain paramount within our community.

Investigations continue to point toward fireworks as possible ignition source of the Palisades Fire.

Permitting a fireworks show in this location would be dangerously insensitive, environmentally harmful, and directly contradict the City of Santa Monica’s stated commitment to public safety and environmental health.

The City of Santa Monica legally prohibits the use of all fireworks due to the devastating impact they can have on a community.

The members-only Beach Club in Santa Monica circumvents the law by using a parking lot that sits over the SM City boundary in Los Angeles County. 

By doing so, using a Santa Monica address, The Beach Club receives a permit to launch fireworks over the public beach of Santa Monica, without warning or notice to the surrounding residents, a city where fireworks are illegal. 

As a private club, they are not required to issue a public notice.

Not only are they a fire risk, but people with disabilities, veterans, and animals suffer immensely from fireworks.

These fireworks are also deeply personal issue.

On July 3, 2021, my beloved dog Darwin was tragically killed as a direct result of The Beach Club's private fireworks show. The sudden explosions startled Darwin, who panicked, broke free from her leash, bolted onto Pacific Coast Highway, and was struck by a passing car.

Fireworks create serious environmental, public health, and community risks.

Environmental Damage: Fireworks release hazardous substances such as aluminum, barium, copper, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), polluting air, water, and beaches.

These contaminants severely impact marine ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and public recreational spaces.

Public Health Risk: Fireworks significantly degrade air quality, exacerbating respiratory conditions, particularly dangerous after wildfire events that already compromise air quality.

Wildlife Disturbance: Explosive fireworks disrupt and endanger wildlife, including marine animals and birds, causing panic and distress.

Community Trauma: Fireworks cause severe distress for veterans, individuals suffering from PTSD, pets, and residents traumatized by recent wildfires.

Safer and Sustainable Alternative: Drone light shows provide an equally breathtaking, safe, and environmentally friendly alternative. They produce no air pollution, eliminate fire risks, and significantly reduce stress to wildlife and community members. Communities nationwide have successfully adopted drone technology to continue celebratory traditions safely.

We respectfully request:

• Immediate cessation of future fireworks permits for events adjacent to Santa Monica beaches, particularly following the destructive Palisades Fire.
• Closure of jurisdictional loopholes allowing such events.
• Transition to drone light shows for future celebrations.

Please join us in protecting our coastline, residents, wildlife, and environment and honoring Darwin’s memory.

Sign and share this petition to support safer, healthier, and more responsible celebrations in our community.

thecoastalalliance.org