The City reminds residents about the by-law regulations around Canada Day fireworks – including no discharging on public properties, age requirements and maintaining safe operating distances.
Over the past few years, the City has received public complaints and emergency calls about fireworks, including discharging fireworks in parks and debris left behind, firework-related grass fires and displays posing danger to residents and property.
So, before the fuse is lit, here are some things to know in advance:
Purchasing fireworks
The sale of consumer fireworks is prohibited in Ottawa, except on Canada Day and the seven business days leading up to it.
Firecrackers prohibited in Ottawa and Ontario
Under the provincial law and the City’s fireworks by-law, the sale and use of firecrackers are strictly prohibited.
Location and age requirement for discharging fireworks
Fireworks displays must be directly supervised by an adult, 18 years and older, and must take place on private property – with permission from the property owner.
No discharging fireworks on City parks and sports fields
Discharging fireworks is not allowed on City property – which includes all parks, sports fields and beaches.
School properties and sports fields are out of bounds too
The four local school boards – Ottawa Catholic School Board, Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, Le Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est and Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario – do not allow discharging fireworks on all school premises, including all track and sports field areas.
Full details on the City of Ottawa’s Fireworks By-law is available on ottawa.ca. Residents can report issues with fireworks online through ServiceOttawa at ottawa.ca.
The Tim Hortons Canada Day Fireworks will be taking place on Friday, July 1 at 10 pm at LeBreton Flats.