Tips To Keep A Family Friendly 4th Of July: Newport Beach PD

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — With parades, gatherings and festivities the 4th of July at Newport Beach is one of the most fun places to spend the holiday in Orange County. Still, the NBPD shared ways to make sure you stay safe and have fun in 2018.

Expect traffic.

Roadways will be closed at various times throughout the day. From 10:30 a.m. until early in the morning of July 5, Southbound Orange Street at West Coast Highway will be closed. Via Oporto, from Via Lido to 32nd Street will also be closed.

Traffic conditions will be monitored throughout the day, they said.

Expect parking problems.

There is only limited parking in the area of West Newport Beach. Residents and visitors are cautioned to park legally in public spaces, private parking areas and garages. Expect to get cited or towed if you violate the parking rules.

Police Presence.

You'll see the Newport Beach Mounted Police throughout the day. You'll also see police in the "safety enhancement zone" starting at 12:01 a.m. on July 4 through 3 a.m. on July 5. That zone is bordered by Pacific Ocean on the south, 32nd Street and Newport Boulevard on the east, West Coast Highway on the north and 54th Street on the west.

Plan to Drink In Public?

If you are caught drinking alcoholic beverages on the streets, sidewalks, beaches, piers or other public areas (including inside cups), expect to get cited or arrested, the Newport Beach Police said.

Shooting off Fireworks?

Think again. It is illegal to shoot off fireworks in Newport Beach, regardless if they are considered "Safe and Sane." In Newport Beach, it is illegal to possess or use all manner of fireworks, including fountains, sparklers that are available for purchase in other nearby cities. "Go to a public, professional fireworks show," NBPD said.

Don't Chuck Water Balloons Or Spray Water at Pedestrians, Bicyclists or Vehicles

This may seem like a no-brainer, but throwing water balloons or spraying water at pedestrians, bicyclists or vehicles is illegal. Violators are subject to citation or arrest.

Partying All Night?

Loud or unruly parties can result in a fine, NBPD said. If you throw a party and the police respond, property owners can get cited or arrested, NBPD says. Here's how to avoid that little disaster.

Limit your number of guests, and keep strangers out.

Make sure no alcohol leaves your property.

Ensure minors don't drink at your party.

Keep the noise, music and raucus behavior down.

Don't allow guests to throw water balloons or spray passers-by.

Ask guests to limit their travel in West Newport due to traffic.

Be courteous to your neighbors and take the party inside after dark.

Keep your outdoor lights on.

Photo, Ashley Ludwig, Patch