City reminds Edmontonians to use fireworks safely ahead of holidays

The City of Edmonton is reminding residents that fireworks are now illegal to use in Edmonton, even on private property, unless you're a professional.

The city is reminding people about its firework regulations and the best way to celebrate events safely and legally.

• Download our app to get Edmonton alerts on your device

Anyone wanting to use fireworks in the city must submit an application for a fireworks permit. A permit costs between $100 to $181.

People caught using fireworks without a permit can receive fines up to $10,000.

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) requires 10 business days to process and approve firework permit applications, the city said in a news release Tuesday.

John Adria of Uncle John’s Fireworks said the bylaw was amended to include not just public spaces, but all spaces in Edmonton.

“Even if you’re in your backyard or your driveway, you cannot use fireworks at all unless you’re a professional,” said Adria, adding that he does about 95 per cent of the firework shows in the city.

The Hindu holiday Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is being celebrated on Oct. 20. Fireworks are an integral part of the holiday and used to celebrate the victory of light over darkness. The tradition dates back hundreds of years.

A copy of the permit must be on-site while the fireworks are in use, the city said.

Last year between October and December, peace officers investigated 127 incidents of illegal fireworks use, leading to $5,884 in fines.

The charges included stunting on a highway, discharging fireworks without a permit, residential noise violations and more.

Between those months, EFRS were dispatched to 20 locations on calls related to fireworks, and one event led to around $1 million in damages.

Anyone wanting to report illegal fireworks can contact 311.