City of Calgary reminds residents: Personal fireworks are strictly prohibited within Calgary city limits
As seasonal celebrations like Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas approach, City of Calgary’s safety partners – the Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Community Safety and the Calgary Police Service (CPS) – are reminding residents that the use, sale, and possession of fireworks is strictly prohibited within city limits unless conducted by certified professionals with a valid permit.
Last year, the CPS received more than 200 calls for service within six days related to unauthorized fireworks, many tied to cultural festivities. The volume of complaints and associated risks prompted serious concern.
“Our officers have been actively connecting with community members to highlight the public safety risks linked to the unauthorized use of fireworks. We’re committed to ensuring public safety while encouraging respectful and joyful celebrations throughout the year,” says Calgary Police Service District 5 General Investigative Unit Staff Sergeant Geoff Gawlinski.
In 2024, Calgary International Airport considered shutting down an active runway due to fireworks discharged nearby. Officials are urging residents to avoid similar disruptions this year.
Safety first
In North America, fireworks account for over 19,000 fires and send more than 9,000 people to emergency rooms each year.
“Fireworks can cause serious injuries and with Calgary experiencing one of the driest fall seasons on record, it’s more important than ever to not use fireworks unless you have a permit,” says Pete Steenaerts, Deputy Chief of Risk Management at the Calgary Fire Department. “One spark could set off a fire that could damage your home or community. It’s crucial that all Calgarians respect these regulations and leave fireworks to the professionals.”
Fireworks regulations and fines
Under City of Calgary Bylaw 55M2014, the following penalties apply:
- Possession of fireworks or pyrotechnics without a permit: Minimum fine of $500
- Use of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $250
- Sale of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $250
Violations may also breach the National Fire Code (Alberta Edition), which can result in further fines and even jail time as outlined in the Safety Codes Act. Failure to comply is defined as the failure to obtain the necessary permits prior to installing or igniting fireworks or pyrotechnics.
If you are found guilty of non-compliance, the consequences are:
- First offence: Fines up to $100,000 and up to $1,000 for each day where the offence continues and/or imprisonment for up to 6 months.
- Second offence: Fines up to $500,000 and up to $2,000 for each day where the offence continues and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.
These penalties apply not only to residents, but also businesses that are illegally selling fireworks.
“The unauthorized sale of fireworks by businesses within Calgary city limits is a direct violation of municipal bylaws,” says Michael Briegel, Deputy Chief of Business Safety. “All businesses must ensure they are operating within the law. Selling fireworks without a valid permit is illegal and may result in significant fines or enforcement actions. We encourage business owners to familiarize themselves with the regulations and reach out to The City if they have questions about compliance.”
Responsible holiday celebrations
As Calgarians prepare for upcoming celebrations, The City urges all residents and businesses to prioritize safety and respect the regulations in place. Fireworks are beautiful when handled by professionals — but dangerous when misused.
Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency firework-related concerns to 311. For more information on fireworks permits and regulations, visit calgary.ca/fireworks.
Let’s celebrate responsibly and keep Calgary safe for everyone.
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