Permits are required to operate fireworks
The long weekend is right around the corner! If you’re planning to use fireworks to celebrate, there are a few steps to take first – like getting a permit!
As outlined in the City of Vaughan’s Fireworks and Pyrotechnics By-law 089-2022 (PDF), the only days Vaughan residents may set off fireworks without a permit are Victoria Day and Canada Day. That means a permit must be obtained from the City to light fireworks in Vaughan on all other days of the year, including the upcoming long weekend. Fireworks must end by 10 p.m. on the permitted day.
To request a permit, you must submit a Fireworks Display Permit Application (PDF) with a site drawing to fireprevention@vaughan.ca. It may take up to 10 business days to process once received.
Once you have your permit, remember to exercise caution around fireworks and follow proper usage tips to ensure everyone has a safe long weekend. Follow these safety guidelines from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service:
DO
Read and follow firework label directions.
Buy your fireworks from a licensed vendor – only use legal fireworks.
Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities.
Operate fireworks outdoors and in an open area at least 30 metres by 30 metres. Make sure the area is clear of all obstructions, such as overhead wires and trees.
Keep the audience (particularly children and pets) a safe distance away from the launch site, preferably upwind.
Have water available nearby (garden hose and bucket).
Wear eye protection and non-flammable clothing when operating fireworks.
Ignite the fireworks from a bucket of sand.
- Dispose of used fireworks responsibly by soaking them in a container of water overnight before putting them in the garbage.
DO NOT
Reignite a firework that did not go off properly the first time.
Experiment or make your own fireworks.
Give fireworks or sparklers to anyone under 18 years old.
You can only light fireworks on your property. Setting off fireworks in a park, roadway, sidewalk or any other public property is illegal. Fireworks must not be set off from any window, doorway, balcony, terrace or deck in a multi-residential property, or any common area of the property. Any person violating the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics By-law may receive a penalty of at least $200 for each offence. If a minor violates the by-law, the parents or guardian may be fined for the offence. Fireworks must not be set off where the discharge, smoke or fallout can land on another person or their property or where it creates a threat of injury or fire.
To report misuse of fireworks, call Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281. To learn more about fireworks safety, visit vaughan.ca/fireworks.
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