Overview
- The California Coastal Commission unanimously upheld staff’s denial of a permit for the July 3 Big Bang on the Bay, which cancels this year’s fireworks over Alamitos Bay.
- Regulators cited the risk of debris and chemical pollution in the water and the potential to disturb nearby heron and egret nesting areas.
- State officials noted a five‑year permit approved last year contemplated a switch to a drone show, and the governor’s office said the vendor had agreed to that transition and that it is reviewing the situation.
- Organizer John Morris appealed the ruling and argued a drone show would cost roughly $140,000 more and turn off many donors, jeopardizing a charity event that has raised about $2 million over the years.
- With the July 3 show off the calendar, the Queen Mary is promoting a separate July 4 program with a 15‑minute fireworks finale, as residents voice both disappointment over the loss of tradition and relief over less noise for pets.