No backyard fireworks over long weekend in Mississauga unless you have a permit

Those planning to set off backyard fireworks over the Labour Day long weekend in Mississauga are reminded they must have a permit from the city in order to do so.

Celebrating with fireworks anywhere on any day throughout the weekend, including the holiday Monday, requires a permit, City of Mississauga officials say.

In Mississauga, fireworks are only permitted at home, without a permit, on Victoria Day, Canada Day, Diwali, Lunar New Year and New Year’s Eve. In place of fireworks, city officials suggest celebrating with glow sticks, noisemakers or sparklers.

As usual on holiday weekends, Mississauga bylaw enforcement officers will be out in full force to ensure fireworks aren’t being sold or used illegally.

“Increased patrols and enforcement will take place this weekend to minimize complaints and ensure celebrations stay safe,” city officials said in a post to social media on Tuesday.

They noted earlier this summer the number of fireworks-related complaints they’ve been receiving on holiday weekends is relatively low given the city’s size.

Those who want to submit complaints about illegal use of fireworks and residents seeking general information can visit the city’s website and search “fireworks” or call the city’s information/reporting line at 311.

City records show residents registered 34 fireworks use complaints with Mississauga’s bylaw enforcement department after Canada Day celebrations earlier this summer. However, no charges were laid by Mississauga officials related to the improper use of fireworks.

Over the Victoria Day long weekend in late May, 29 public complaints related to the use and sale of fireworks were lodged with Mississauga officials. In one case, four charges were laid against the seller of illegal fireworks, the city said.

Officials remind residents of some regulations governing use of fireworks:

• residents are not permitted to set off fireworks in a street, public property (parks, etc.), a parking lot or any private property that is not their own
• fireworks on private property may only be set off on the statutory holiday and with a permit, when required
• the sale of fireworks in Mississauga requires a licence issued by City of Mississauga bylaw enforcement staff