Celebrating Chinese New Year with fireworks? Here are the rules

Celebrating Chinese New Year with fireworks? Here are the rules

The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) is reminding residents and visitors of safe practices and rules when it comes to setting off fireworks for Chinese New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year.

Low-hazard fireworks - which are designed for public recreational use - are permitted on private property from dusk on Chinese New Year’s Eve, Monday, Feb. 16, until 12:15 a.m. Chinese New Year’s Day, Tuesday, Feb. 17.

Low-hazard fireworks travel less than 160 feet high and include items such as roman candles, sparklers and mines and snakes.

High-hazard fireworks can only be purchased by those holding a valid Fireworks Supervisor - Level 1 or Level 2 card.

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In a press release, SFD mentions several of the risks and obligations when it comes to fireworks:

• Carefully read and follow manufacturer instructions
• Exercise increased caution when handling and discharging any type of firework
• Fireworks can only be discharged on private property
• Know the space requirements for the type of firework being discharged. Requirements vary depending on the firework type
• Ensure your location is free of overhead obstructions, is clear side-to-side and is a safe distance from combustible materials
• Ensure it’s not windy and all spectators are a safe distance away
• Properly stabilize the firework according to manufacturer direction
• Never light or hold a lit firework in your hand
• Light the fuse at the tip
• Never try to relight or fix the fuse on fireworks that didn’t go off
• Have a supply of water available to extinguish debris or smoldering embers before they cause injuries, property damage and/or fires
• You are responsible for any debris that may land on spectators or another’s property

More information about fireworks safety can be found at saskatoon.ca/fireworks.

2026 is the Year of the Horse, based on the Chinese Zodiac. It runs from Feb. 17, 2026, to Feb. 5, 2027.