Fireworks– Enjoy Them Safely and Legally

From “trick-or-treats” to fireworks, Halloween is a fun-filled time of year for everyone.  While fireworks are exciting to watch, they can be very dangerous, and if handled improperly, can cause burns, lacerations and even blindness. Even when handled properly there is a risk of fire.  Fireworks should never be pointed towards a person, animal, motor vehicle or building.

To ensure a safe and fun Halloween, the following regulations, as provided by the Burnaby Fire Services Bylaw, apply in Burnaby:

  • Sale of fireworks is permitted only between October 25 and October 31 each year.
  • Businesses selling fireworks must have a valid business license issued on or before the first Friday in October.
  • A person must be at least 18 years of age to purchase fireworks.
  • Fireworks can be set off only on October 31 of each year, unless permission is otherwise granted for special occasions by the Fire Chief.
  • Use of fireworks is limited to private property, unless a permit has been obtained from the Fire Chief to allow their use on public property.
  • A person must be at least 18 years of age to set off fireworks on private property with the consent of the property owner.
  • Firecrackers – which produce a bang but not a visual display – are illegal to sell, buy or set off any time.

A fireworks permit can be obtained from the Administration Office at Burnaby Fire Station #1 at 4867 Sperling Avenue. The office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.

For questions or concerns regarding the use of fireworks, contact the Burnaby Fire Department at 604-294-7195 or email fire@burnaby.ca. To view the Burnaby Fire Services Bylaw, visit www.burnaby.ca.