Fireworks

Fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited in Maple Ridge unless authorized by a valid permit issued under the Maple Ridge Fireworks By-law No. 6279 – 2004 

Without a permit, it is unlawful to sell, give away, trade, possess, ignite, discharge, throw, propel or set off fireworks or firecrackers. This includes bottle rockets, screechers, roman candles, fountains and other noise producing or recreational fireworks. 

These rules help keep our community safe and prevents injuries, fires, and harm to pets and wildlife.  

The City of Maple Ridge organizes a fireworks display in conjunction with the annual Celebrate the Night Festival. This event, which occurs around Halloween, provides a safe and well-organized place for you and your family to enjoy a professional fireworks display. Look for details on this event, and all the associated parts of the festival, in October.

Without a valid Special Fireworks Permit, it is unlawful to:

• Sell, give away, trade, possess, ignite, discharge, throw, propel, or set off fireworks or firecrackers in Maple Ridge.
• Provide fireworks to anyone under the age of majority.
• Store fireworks, firecrackers, explosive materials, or related ammunition without written permission from the Fire Chief.

This includes noise-producing items commonly known as firecrackers, bottle rockets, screechers, air bombs, and similar products, as well as recreational fireworks such as fountains, Roman candles, sparklers, pinwheels, and volcanoes.

Anyone planning a fireworks display may apply for a Special Fireworks Permit through City Hall. Applications must meet the bylaw’s requirements and are subject to review and approval by Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue. 

Applicants must designate two qualified operators, one of whom who must hold a valid Natural Resources Canada Fireworks Operator Certificate at the Display Supervisor level (or equivalent Fireworks Supervisor certification).

The bylaw establishes a permit fee of $200.

Special fireworks displays

Permits are only granted if applicants meet all Bylaw and Fire Department requirements, as well as any conditions placed on the permit. 

Requirements for a fireworks display include, but are not limited to:

• A suitable and approved display location.
• Minimum separation distances from buildings, roads, railways, overhead lines, trees, and other obstructions.
• A controlled spectator area, with the public kept at least 45 metres from the firing location.
• At least two qualified operators on duty during the display, including one operator with a valid Fireworks Supervisor’s Certificate.
• Operators who are at least 21 years old and competent to conduct the display.
• At least two approved fire extinguishers available at the display site.
• General comprehensive liability insurance of at least $5 million, naming the City as an additional insured.

Even after a permit has been issued, a fireworks display may not proceed if conditions are unsafe. A permit may be cancelled, suspended, or subject to additional restrictions because of fire danger or weather conditions.

Fireworks displays cannot be held when:

• Wind speeds exceed 10 km/h;
• The temperature is 30°C or higher;
• Humidity is 30% or lower; or
• The fire danger rating is extreme.

Fireworks or firecrackers used or possessed contrary to the bylaw may be seized and disposed of without compensation.

Violations may result in:

• A fine of up to $10,000;
• Up to six months’ imprisonment; or
• Both a fine and imprisonment.

Anyone responsible for a fire caused by the misuse of fireworks may also be charged for fire response and mitigation costs. The bylaw sets these costs at $300 per hour for each fire truck and $30 per hour for each firefighter.

To report the sale or use of fireworks or firecrackers, contact the City’s Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety Department at Bylaws@MapleRidge.ca or call 604-467-7305.  

To report non-emergency issues please contact the Ridge Meadows RCMP non-emergency line at 604-463-6251

For emergencies please dial 9-1-1.