Fireworks are lighting up conversations across Toronto as the city gears up for multiple displays across Canada Day on Tuesday. July 1.
On the big day itself, you’re allowed to set off fireworks on your own property without a permit until 11 p.m. However, Toronto has specific bylaws around the safe use and sale of fireworks, and breaking them could land you a hefty fine.
Here’s what you need to know about buying and using fireworks in Toronto — and how to avoid any safety risks!
What are Toronto’s fireworks rules?
In Toronto, consumer fireworks are considered low-risk devices meant for personal enjoyment. This includes sparklers, Roman candles, pinwheels, fountains, and other small-scale effects designed for backyard celebrations.
You can legally light these fireworks on your own property until 11 p.m. on Canada Day (or Victoria Day) without needing a permit. Outside of those two holidays, you must apply for a permit to use fireworks. Even then, the 11 p.m. curfew still applies.
Breaking the rules can get costly. If you set off fireworks without a permit on any unauthorized day, you could be fined up to $1,000 under Toronto’s fireworks bylaws.
Setting off fireworks in public spaces is also a no-go. That includes in parks, beaches, streets, parking lots, balconies, or any private property you don’t own. According to the parks bylaws, simply having or using fireworks in a park or on a beach could result in a $600 fine.
If you’re planning a legal display, be cautious. Fireworks should never be set off where they might cause injury, start a fire, or disturb others. The cost of a permit is $220.85. To apply, you can email the City or call 416-338-5340, Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Which fireworks are banned in Toronto?
The City of Toronto has strict rules around what kinds of fireworks are allowed, and a long list of items are outright banned for safety reasons.
According to the City bylaws, any fireworks not listed on the current roster of approved consumer fireworks by Natural Resources Canada’s Explosives Regulatory Division are automatically considered illegal.
This includes novelty or joke items that may seem harmless but can pose serious risks. Examples of banned fireworks and devices include exploding golf balls, cigarette loads, and exploding or sparkling matches.
Also off-limits are prank items like stink bombs, smoke bombs, tear gas pens, and fake firecrackers designed to mimic the real thing.
Other prohibited items include cherry bombs, M-80s, silver salutes, and flash crackers — all of which are known for their power and potential to cause harm. Trick fireworks, such as step-on or throw-down torpedoes, crackling balls, table rockets, and battle-style skyrockets, are also not allowed.
Even miniature devices disguised as everyday items, such as keychain guns or tie-clip pistols, are banned.
These rules are in place to protect both the public and emergency services from unnecessary danger. If you’re unsure about a fireworks product, it’s best to check the official list — or avoid it altogether.
How do you safely use fireworks?
Fireworks can be fun to watch, but if not used properly, they can lead to serious injuries or even fires. That’s why Toronto Fire Services encourages residents to attend professional displays put on by licensed experts rather than setting off their own.
For those who still plan to host a show at home, it’s essential to ensure your yard is large enough and clear of any flammable materials, such as trees, sheds, or nearby houses.
Only adults aged 18 and older are legally allowed to light fireworks in Toronto. Children should never be allowed to handle or ignite them under any circumstances.
Before lighting any firework, carefully review the instructions that come with it. They’ll tell you how to set them up and how far back people need to stand to stay safe.
Think safety first: prepare your space, ensure everyone nearby is protected, and take steps to prevent injuries and property damage. Also, be mindful of pets and other animals, which may become scared by the loud noises.
A complete list of guidelines can be found on the City’s website.
How much can you get fined?
Toronto has many firework-related bylaws, and breaking any of them could cost you anywhere from $600 to $1,000 in fines.
Some of the more serious violations that carry the maximum $1,000 penalty include:
- Allowing a minor under your care to set off fireworks.
- Setting off consumer fireworks within 100 metres of flammable materials like gas or explosives.
- Using fireworks without a permit on days that aren’t Victoria Day or Canada Day.
- Discharging fireworks that are banned under City regulations.
Violating specific fireworks rules in Toronto can lead to a $700 fine, even if you’re setting them off on a permitted day.
Some of the bylaw offences that can cost you $700 include:
- Lighting fireworks after 11 p.m. on Victoria Day or Canada Day.
- Using fireworks in a way that creates a safety hazard, nuisance, or risk of fire, injury, or property damage.
- Setting off fireworks in public areas like streets, parks, laneways, or squares.
- Failing to keep spectators at a safe distance, as outlined in the safety manual.
Two specific bylaw violations carry a $600 fine each:
- Not cleaning up fireworks or debris after a display.
- Failing to restore the site to its original condition once the display is over.
So, if you’re organizing a fireworks show, be sure to include cleanup as part of your plan. Neglecting it could cost you!
If you see or hear fireworks being misused, you can report it by calling 311. Bylaw officers will follow up by investigating the situation, and depending on their findings, they may issue a warning, provide education, or take enforcement action.
More information on fireworks-related bylaws can be found on the City’s website.
The City of Toronto will be lighting up the sky with seven free fireworks shows on Canada Day at Amesbury Park, Ashbridges Bay Park, Centennial Park, Harbourfront Centre, Mel Lastman Square, Milliken Park, and Stan Wadlow Park.
Have fun, Toronto!
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