Skip to main content

Family Fireworks Permit

Family fireworks may only be set off on private property and with the homeowner’s consent.

Fireworks are not allowed on City property. This includes parks, fields and roads.

Permits are not required the day before Victoria Day and on Victoria Day, and the day before Canada Day and on Canada Day. You will need a permit to set off fireworks on all other days. Under the Provincial Offences Act, violators may be fined up to $5,000.

Applications for Family Fireworks Permits must be made online at least seven days before the planned event date.

Family Fireworks Permits cost $236 plus HST. The City collects this fee during the online application process.

Types of Fireworks

Family fireworks are low-hazard fireworks for recreation purposes. They include:

  • Showers
  • Fountains
  • Sparklers
  • Pinwheels
  • Roman candles
  • Other similar fireworks

Family fireworks do not include:

  • Cherry bombs
  • Flash crackers
  • Firecrackers
  • Throw-down and step-on torpedoes
  • Smoke bombs
  • Table rockets
  • Other similar devices

How to Safely Use Fireworks

If you set off family fireworks, you must:

  • Have a fully operational fire extinguisher ready for use.
  • Use fireworks that have been approved for sale or use in Canada.
  • Secure the fireworks in a stable base, like a bucket of sand. Before they are lit, fireworks should be buried at least half their length in the bucket of sand.
  • Use a safe lighter. This could be a butane BBQ lighter or ignition stick.
  • Light the fireworks at arm’s length, stand back and keep your face turned away. If a firework fails to light, do not attempt to re-light it. Let it sit in the base for 10 to 15 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Never throw or point fireworks at people.
  • Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
  • Never discharge fireworks in metal or glass containers.
  • Never discharge fireworks or use sparklers indoors.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings when using fireworks.
  • Only responsible adults should supervise and set off fireworks.
  • Keep spectators (including children) a safe distance away from the fireworks display. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to know how far away spectators should be so everyone stays safe.
  • If you are hosting your own backyard fireworks display, make sure you have the proper sized yard and that there are no buildings or trees nearby.
  • Dispose of defective fireworks according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Dispose of fireworks according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or soak them in water overnight.
  • Never leave fireworks unattended.

How to Properly Dispose of Fireworks

  • Improper disposal of fireworks can cause fires. Never put used or unused fireworks in the Blue Bin.
  • Before disposing of used or unused fireworks, soak them in water overnight and put them in your household garbage once they have cooled
     

Firework Safety Campaign Infographic

Learn more about Markham Fire & Emergency Services

Apply Now

Please use the form below to make your request: