City of Niagara Falls Reminds Residents of Strict Fireworks Regulations Ahead of Diwali

NIAGARA FALLS, ON - With Diwali approaching, the City of Niagara Falls and Niagara Falls Fire Department are reminding residents and businesses of the rules for the sale and use of consumer fireworks.

The City's Fireworks By-law regulates when, where and how fireworks can be sold and discharged to help protect public safety and reduce the risk of fires, injuries and property damage.

Residents are reminded of the following regulations:

• Permitted days: Consumer fireworks may only be discharged on Diwali, Chinese New Year, Victoria Day and Canada Day, as well as the day before and three days following each holiday.
• Permitted hours: Fireworks may only be discharged between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. on permitted days.
• Private property only: Fireworks may only be discharged on private property with the property owner's permission. Fireworks are prohibited in or over public spaces, including parks, streets, sidewalks and public parking lots.
• Age restrictions: Individuals must be at least 18 years old to purchase or discharge consumer fireworks.
• Safety requirements: Fireworks must not be discharged when wind speeds exceed 20 km/h or when a fire ban is in effect. Fireworks must also be kept clear of buildings, vehicles, overhead wires and neighbouring properties.

"Our primary goal is ensuring everyone can celebrate safely, and that starts with keeping fireworks out of our shared public areas," said A.J. Lunn, Public Education Officer with the Niagara Falls Fire Department. "Discharging fireworks in parks or on city streets is not only illegal, but it also poses a severe safety hazard to bystanders, property, and local wildlife. We want everyone to celebrate our holidays safely and stick to discharging fireworks during designated hours and on private property to protect our community."

Fireworks sales and permits

Businesses are also reminded that a valid permit issued by the Fire Chief is required to sell consumer fireworks in Niagara Falls.

Fireworks may only be sold during designated periods leading up to permitted holidays and from approved locations, such as inspected permanent buildings or authorized enclosed trailers. Sales from tents, roadside stands and residential properties are prohibited.

Failure to comply with the City's Fireworks By-law may result in fines and the seizure of fireworks.

For more information, including the full by-law, fireworks safety requirements and retail permits, visit the City's Fireworks and Pyrotechnics webpage.

For more information, contact:
A.J. Lunn
Public Education Officer
Niagara Falls Fire Department
905-356-1321 ext. 2210
alunn@niagarafalls.ca