Fireworks - A Guide to By-Law 4293
Can I use consumer fireworks on my property?
To minimize the risk of property damage, fire and serious injury, Tillsonburg Fire & Rescue Services does not encourage backyard fireworks displays. Fireworks are safest when handled by qualified fireworks experts at public events.
However, if you choose to have a backyard or family display in the Town of Tillsonburg, you must comply with By-Law 4293.
Please note that only consumer-grade, low-hazard fireworks (Canadian class 7.2.1/F.1) are appropriate for home/personal use. See the full by-law for details regarding firework sales, and the requirements for display fireworks (Canadian class 7.2.2 / F.2).
Where can I discharge consumer fireworks?
Fireworks can only be discharged in areas where it is safe to do so (i.e., away from buildings, trees and people), and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The required clearance will be printed on the firework device.
A responsible adult (18 years+) must provide supervision.
You may only discharge fireworks on a property if you are the owner of the property, or have written permission from the owner of the property.
Fireworks can never be discharged:
- After 11:00 p.m.
- On Town-owned property including streets, sidewalks, parks and fields
- From the roof of any building
- Inside buildings, structures or vehicles
When can I discharge consumer fireworks?
Fireworks are allowed only to be sold and discharged in conjunction with Victoria Day, Canada, Day, Labour Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations. You can discharge fireworks on the actual holiday, or two days before or after these dates.
Firework Safety Tips
- Purchase your fireworks from a reputable dealer
- Always read and follow the directions on the firework labels exactly.
- Keep children a safe distance away from fireworks
- Have adults supervise the lighting and handling of fireworks
- Ensure you have a phone available to call 911 if required
- Make sure you have water on hand (i.e., garden hose or bucket of water).
- Light only one firework at a time
- Never try to re-light a ‘dud’ firework. Wait 20 minutes before handling and then soak the firework in a bucket of water to ensure safe disposal.
- Don’t give fireworks to small children, including sparklers. While sparklers are often considered harmless fun, they can burn twice as hot as a typical kitchen oven (1200 degrees F). They can easily ignite clothing, and cause eye damage and burns.
- Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water and disposing of them in a metal garbage can
- If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes, and seek medical attention if required.
Some types of fireworks are not allowed to be used at any time. Learn more about classes of fireworks, and fireworks authorized for sale/use in Canada by visiting the Natural Resources Canada Explosives Regulatory Division website.
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