Report casting doubt on Winnipeg’s fireworks enforcement

Picture of fireworks

New numbers are shedding light on the difficulty of fireworks enforcement in Winnipeg.

According to a City of Winnipeg report, the challenge surrounds a lack of resources for the enforcement of residents who set off fireworks without a permit.

It notes there are currently 19 fire prevention officers within the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) who work daytime hours, adding that firefighters could be sent to address fireworks concerns “with the understanding that this will increase work volume and leave units unavailable for emergency response.”

The report goes on to say that the WFPS changed its fireworks dispatch protocols last year and as a result, crews are only dispatched if there is a risk of fire or injury. Data shows that in 2025 crews were dispatched to 41 of the 306 fireworks calls, which is down significantly from 2024 when it responded to 153 of 256 calls.

“Public education and prevention messaging alone will not decrease the impacts of illegal fireworks,” the report says.

“The work is resource intensive, not sustainable for every major event, and requires stronger enforcement ability for those still disregarding the requirements.

The report suggests some possible enforcement options include banning the sale and use of consumer fireworks or revisions to the current bylaw, including firework-free zones, increased fines and improved enforcement.

Currently, the city’s fireworks use is governed by the fire-prevention bylaw. To be eligible for a permit, a resident must be 18 years of age or older, have 100 feet of clearance from all buildings and trees, and have the written consent of the property owner. Residents who set off fireworks without a permit could be fined up to $500.

In 2025, the city approved 68 consumer permits and 76 professional permits.

Winnipeg’s public service has been directed to report back next year with enforcement options based on a jurisdictional scan and in alignment with the by-law enforcement strategy.

The full report, which was submitted for information only, is available online.