What to know before setting off fireworks in Brampton this long weekend

Brampton residents looking to celebrate Labour Day with fireworks will need to have the proper permits to avoid up to $5,000 in fines.

There are currently only four days per year when the city allows short-range fireworks to be set off on private property in Brampton without a permit; Victoria Day, Canada Day, Diwali and New Year’s Eve.

Setting off fireworks on all other days of the year requires a permit through the city, which costs $255.00 and can be applied for on the City’s website.

Brampton is also the only municipality in the province that restricts fireworks based on height, outlawing any displays that do not travel more than 3 metres from the point of ignition.

Setting off fireworks on sidewalks, streets, within city parks, school yards or any other public area are also prohibited.

Fines for discharging, selling or possessing fireworks without a permit in Brampton currently come with fines from the city between $250 to $350, or Court imposed fines ranging from $500 to $5,000.

Here’s what you need to know about purchasing fireworks in Brampton and tips from the City to make sure your pyrotechnic displays go off safely:

Buying fireworks and preparing for safety

• Buy from a City-licensed vendor. They have to undergo training every year with the City and their stores are inspected to ensure that fireworks are stored correctly for everyone’s safety.
• You may be asked to provide ID when buying fireworks in Brampton, to verify that you are 18 years of age or older.
• When vendors complete the training and are licensed, their store location will be listed on this page. If you do not see a list, it means that no vendors applied or that no licences were issued.
• After buying the fireworks, keep them in a cool, dry, ventilated place and in a locked container, away from children.
• If you have vehicles on your driveway, move them into the garage or on the street (ensuring that you abide by all relevant parking by-laws). This way, you will have a clear space on your driveway to use for short-range fireworks.
• Check the weather forecast. If it is going to be windy, do not use fireworks. It’s risky and could cause the spark to spread faster.
• Keep our family and neighbours safe by ensuring that all unused fireworks and all debris are removed.

Using fireworks safely

• Keep a pail of water handy to put out fireworks and used sparklers.
• If you are under 18, do not use fireworks without adult supervision.
• Read all instructions on the fireworks and plan the order of firing before you begin.
• Do not light a firework or hold a lit firework in your hand other than a sparkler.
• Wait at least 30 minutes before approaching a firework that did not discharge.
• Never try to fix fireworks that are defective.
• Light carefully, always light the fuse at its tip.
• Use a good firing base, such as pails or boxes filled with earth or sand.
• Bury fireworks half their length if they have no standing base, unless the labelling on the fireworks directs otherwise. Set them at a 10° angle, pointing away from people.
• Spectators must be at the safe distance specified on the fireworks’ label.
• Keep used fireworks (including debris) in a pail of water, allow it to cool fully before disposal.
• If you parked your car on the street to make space on your driveway, be sure not to park for more than three hours, and also be sure to avoid parking within 3 metres of fire hydrants.