The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) and the state Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) stepped up joint illegal fireworks enforcement efforts on New Year’s Eve.
From 6 p.m. Dec. 31, 2025, to 6 a.m. Jan. 1, 2026, HPD officers responded to 592 calls for service related to fireworks violations, up from 395 calls during the same period last year. All beats were fully staffed. Officers issued 29 citations for fireworks violations across all districts and made two fireworks-related arrests. One individual was arrested for lighting an illegal aerial firework, and the other was arrested for using firecrackers without a permit.
During this time, HPD responded to 1473 total calls for service and made 121 arrests. This includes both fireworks and non-fireworks incidents.
“I think we saw fewer illegal fireworks this year thanks to several factors,” said Rade Vanic, interim police chief. “We feel people took into consideration the new fireworks laws and the fact they could face higher penalties. Also, having more officers on patrol was an effective deterrent when folks saw blue lights on their street. We’d also like to thank everyone who chose to do the right thing to protect their community.”
The DLE seized nearly 61 tons of illegal fireworks and made five felony arrests. Residents turned in more than 2,500 pounds of fireworks. The agency also had 12 drones in operation across the island.
“We still have hours of drone video and numerous tips to go through, and we will work with the Attorney General’s office to put the property owners on notice,” said Mike Lambert, director of state law enforcement. “We too, along with our HPD partners, very much appreciate those who responded to the message to follow the law, keep your family and neighborhoods safe.”
Officials emphasized that coordinated enforcement and public education efforts will continue year-round to deter illegal fireworks use and promote safer choices. Over the holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s Day, HPD officers also continued impaired driving enforcement, resulting in 53 arrests between Dec. 19, 2025, and Jan. 5, 2026.