City of Calgary reminds residents personal fireworks in city limits are illegal ahead of cultural festivities

Ahead of upcoming cultural celebrations, the City of Calgary is reminding residents that setting off personal fireworks in city limits is not allowed.

The warning comes ahead of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas festivities.

Last year, the Calgary Police Service (CPS) received more than 200 calls for service in six days related to unauthorized fireworks, many tied to cultural festivities.

The city says the volume of complaints and associated risks prompted serious concern.

“Our officers have been actively connecting with community members to highlight the public safety risks linked to the unauthorized use of fireworks. We’re committed to ensuring public safety while encouraging respectful and joyful celebrations throughout the year,” said CPS District 5 General Investigative Unit Staff Sergeant Geoff Gawlinski.

Last year, the Calgary International Airport considered shutting down an active runway after fireworks were set off nearby, the city says.

Fireworks account for over 19,000 fires and send more than 9,000 people to emergency rooms each year in North America.

“Fireworks can cause serious injuries and with Calgary experiencing one of the driest fall seasons on record, it’s more important than ever to not use fireworks unless you have a permit,” explained Pete Steenaerts, Deputy Chief of Risk Management at the Calgary Fire Department. “One spark could set off a fire that could damage your home or community.

“It’s crucial that all Calgarians respect these regulations and leave fireworks to the professionals.”

Individuals found to be setting off fireworks in city limits can face several fines, including $500 for possession of fireworks or pyrotechnics without a permit, $250 for use of fireworks without a permit, and $250 for the sale of fireworks without a permit.

Violations can also breach the Alberta edition of the National Fire Code, which can lead to further fines and jail time.

Those found not to be in compliance with that law can be faced with:

• First offence: Fines up to $100,000 and up to $1,000 for each day where the offence continues and/or imprisonment for up to 6 months.
• Second offence: Fines up to $500,000 and up to $2,000 for each day where the offence continues and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.

These penalties also apply to businesses that are illegally selling fireworks.

“The unauthorized sale of fireworks by businesses within Calgary city limits is a direct violation of municipal bylaws,” said Michael Briegel, Deputy Chief of Business Safety. “All businesses must ensure they are operating within the law. Selling fireworks without a valid permit is illegal and may result in significant fines or enforcement actions.

“We encourage business owners to familiarize themselves with the regulations and reach out to The City if they have questions about compliance.”

Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency firework-related concerns to 311.