Business owners and residents frustrated over Wasaga Beach fireworks ban

A new bylaw will ban the sale of fireworks in Wasaga Beach.

A new bylaw banning the sale and private use of fireworks in Wasaga Beach has lit a fuse among residents and business owners, sparking both support and frustration in the beachfront community.

Earlier this month, Town council voted to eliminate backyard fireworks and prohibit stores from selling them, citing safety and community well-being.

“I disagree. It’s your property. You are paying tremendous amounts of property taxes,” stated resident Dean Robinson. “Do what you want to do on your property.”

In a statement provided to CTV News, Mayor Brian Smith defended the ban, calling it a step toward protecting public safety.

“There have been some troubling instances, over the years, of bad actors using poor judgement and setting off fireworks near large gatherings of families and children close to town-organized festivals and events,” Smith wrote. “Council is taking action to ensure our community remains a safe, fun place to raise a family, visit and play in the sun.”

The new rules don’t eliminate all fireworks displays. The Town confirmed it would continue to host professional shows during select municipal events, including Canada Day and the summer series.

But for local retailers, like Jay Patel, the bylaw is a financial blow.

“It’s very important when economically we are down with our sales, everything counts, with the little bit of everywhere we can get our sales,” said Patel, who owns Jay’s Gas Bar and Variety. “At least five per cent of total sales come from fireworks.”

Environmental concerns and noise complaints played a role in council’s decision. Some residents also emphasized the impacts on pets and wildlife, while others see the move as an overreach.

Aleem Kanji, spokesperson for the Canadian National Fireworks Association, said the ban raises broader concerns.

“If it’s fireworks today that the town has banned, what could be next?” he questioned. “I think residents should be concerned about their personal freedoms and their ability to celebrate responsibility in the Town of Wasaga Beach.”

While the Town hasn’t established specific fines for those violating the ban, officials say an education-first approach will be used before enforcement begins. Still, questions remain about how effective the ban will be, especially with fireworks still available for purchase in neighbouring municipalities.

“There’s nothing stopping people from buying fireworks out of town,” Kanji added.

The fireworks bylaw is expected to be implemented over the coming months, with more details - including enforcement methods - still to come.

With files from CTV’s Rob Cooper