Calgarians will now have to pay stiffer penalties for setting off fireworks illegally. Fines are also increasing for the illegal sale of fireworks. Calgary’s Fire Operations and Fees bylaw prohibits the sale, purchase and discharge of fireworks within city limits without a permit – including consumer fireworks (such as Roman candles), display fireworks (such as waterfalls and multi-shot cakes) and firecrackers. Despite this, a report from administration presented to councillors on Sept. 2 indicated unauthorized sale and discharge of consumer fireworks remained “an issue.” As such, administration proposed changes to the bylaw to add in stiffer fines — something that councillors unanimously endorsed. Starting Tuesday, fines for the illegal sale of fireworks jumped from $750 to $3,000. Fines for the illegal discharge/use of fireworks, meanwhile, doubled from $500 to $1,000. There’s also a new $1,000 fine for carrying or setting up fireworks for use in a public place. “These changes are about protecting public safety while supporting safe and responsible celebrations,” said fire marshal Glenn Baxter. The bylaw amendments come after Ward 5 Coun. Raj Dhaliwal introduced a notice of motion last November that suggested the changes were needed to “strengthen enforcement from the sales and distribution perspective, including review of current fines, penalties and licensing requirements for individuals or businesses found selling fireworks illegally.” Peak periods for illegal firework use According to the report, peak periods for illegal firework use in Calgary are Diwali, Canada Day, Stampede and New Year’s Eve. The report says data from 311, the Calgary Fire Department and the Calgary Police Service show spikes in complaints and incidents around specific dates, “especially during the Diwali festival period (October/November), which in recent years has generated the highest volume of 311 fireworks-related complaints.” In addition to increasing fines, city administration recommended enhancing education and outreach and enabling community-led events with the help of city funding – an approach that would prioritize safety while enabling safe celebrations. On Tuesday, city officials said that a “coordinated operational plan” has been developed involving Emergency Management and Community Safety (EMCS), the Calgary Fire Department and the Calgary Police Service to improve education and enforcement during peak periods. “By strengthening enforcement and improving education to support safe celebrations, Calgary is building a future where cultural traditions can thrive while keeping communities safe, welcoming and vibrant for all,” said the city in a news release.
