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Stop the Fireworks Ban in Vancouver

Vancouver City Council passed a motion to ban the sale and use of family fireworks in Vancouver. This means that, unless you attend a large professional display, you cannot use fireworks to celebrate Diwali, Lunar New Year, Halloween, Canada Day, Victoria Day, New Years Eve or any other special occasion.

Federally-authorized fireworks are safe. Fireworks have been a part of Canadian and immigrant traditions for generations. Canada is a world leader in ensuring fireworks are safe before being approved for sale and use.

FAQ

Q: What was passed at City Council?

A: Vancouver City Council passed a motion to ban the sale and use of family fireworks. The motion can be found here.

Q: What does this mean for me as a resident of Vancouver?

A: The motion passed by City Council bans the sale and use of family fireworks in Vancouver. This means that, unless you attend a large professional display, you cannot use fireworks to celebrate Diwali, Lunar New Year, Halloween, New Years Eve, Canada Day or Victoria Day.

Q: I want to be able to celebrate holidays and culturally significant days with fireworks. How can I help?

A: If you are a resident or business owner in the City of Vancouver, contact City Council and tell them “I support the use of family fireworks in Vancouver”. You can email them here.

Or with these emails:

CLRbligh@vancouver.ca

CLRboyle@vancouver.ca

CLRcarr@vancouver.ca

CLRdegenova@vancouver.ca

CLRdominato@vancouver.ca

CLRfry@vancouver.ca

CLRhardwick@vancouver.ca

CLRkirby-yung@vancouver.ca

CLRswanson@vancouver.ca

CLRwiebe@vancouver.ca

Q: What are family fireworks?

A: Family fireworks, also known as consumer fireworks, are low-hazard fireworks designed for recreational use by members of the general public over the age of 18 such as fountains and sparklers. They are not the same as the products used by professionals in large displays.

Q: Are family fireworks safe?

A: Yes. Canada has some of the strictest regulations around fireworks in the world. Family fireworks are put through rigorous testing before being approved for sale and use by the federal government. You are 100x more likely to be injured or sustain property damage from a burning candle than fireworks.

Q: Fireworks are part of my traditions. Can I use them in cultural celebrations like Diwali and Chinese New Year?

A: No. The motion passed by City Council bans the sale and use of family fireworks in Vancouver. This means that, unless you attend a large professional display, you cannot use fireworks to celebrate cultural holidays like Diwali and Lunar New Year.

Q: Are family fireworks legal for sale and use in other Canadian cities?

A: Yes. Family fireworks are a longstanding Canadian tradition. Many Canadian cities like Toronto, Edmonton, Ottawa and Mississauga allow the sale and use of family fireworks to celebrate special occasions and cultural holidays.

Q: Who regulates fireworks in Canada?

A: In Canada, family fireworks are regulated by the federal government. They undergo rigorous testing before being approved for sale and use. Municipal governments may further regulate the use, storage and sale of fireworks based on the needs of their community. For more information, you can visit the Natural Resources Canada website.