Stay Safe This Summer: Fireworks Ban and Be Fire Smart in Parks

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Maple Ridge, B.C., June 18, 2025 – As Canada Day approaches and summer activities ramp up, the City of Maple Ridge is reminding residents that fireworks and firecrackers are strictly prohibited and encouraging everyone to do their part in preventing wildfires and keeping our parks safe.

Fire Ban in Effect - Fireworks and Other Activities Prohibited

The sale and explosion of fireworks and firecrackers is not allowed in Maple Ridge. Due to a fire ban issued by the Fire Chief on May 29, fireworks permits will not be issued. Bylaw, Fire Department, and RCMP staff will be out in the community addressing complaints and enforcing regulations.

Anyone found using, possessing, or selling fireworks in violation of the City's bylaws may face fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 and will be required to surrender the fireworks immediately.

“With dry conditions and increased wildfire risk across the region, even one spark can have devastating consequences,” said Maple Ridge Fire Chief Dave Samson. “We urge everyone to enjoy Canada Day and the summer season safely and be careful with any activities that could lead to fires.”

Use Caution When Outdoors 

Category 2 and 3 fire bans remain in effect, which include fireworks, sky lanterns, binary explosive targets, burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description, air curtain burners and chimineas.

Category 1 campfires are not permitted in City parks and are only allowed on eligible private properties. Check the online map to see if your address is eligible at MapleRidge.ca/BackyardBurning. Where permitted, small campfires must be no larger than 0.5m x 0.5m, surrounded by a cleared fireguard and have at least eight litres of water, a hose, and a hand tool nearby for extinguishing.

For outdoor cooking and heating, consider alternatives such as CSA-rated or ULC-rated barbecues, camping stoves, or portable campfire apparatus using gas, propane, or charcoal in designated areas. Ensure all flames are fully extinguished when leaving.

Anyone violating the regulations within a prohibited area will be subject to a $1150.00 fine.

Summer Fire Safety and Park Etiquette


To keep parks, trails, and green spaces safe and enjoyable, residents are advised:

  • No smoking in parks and trails
  • Use bins for garbage and recycling. If they’re full, take waste home
  • Keep pets leashed and clean up after them
  • Respect noise levels and avoid disturbing others enjoying public spaces
  • Swim only in designated areas and supervise children around water
  • Stay within public park boundaries and avoid trespassing on nearby private property

“Our Bylaw team will be out in the community, focusing on public education and enforcing regulations to help keep everyone safe,” said Michelle Adams, Director of Bylaw, Licensing, and Community Safety. “We’re asking residents to do their part—follow the rules, respect the fire bans, and help us reduce fire risks this summer.”

Reporting Violations
 

If you see the use or sale of fireworks, or fire safety concerns in parks, please report them:

For more information on fireworks and park safety guidelines, visit MapleRidge.ca/Fireworks or MapleRidge.ca/Parks.

For additional information, contact Michelle Adams, Director of Bylaw, Licensing, and Community Safety at 604-467-7370 or MAdams@MapleRidge.ca

 

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Media Contact:

Pardeep Purewal

Senior Manager of Corporate Communications & Public Engagement 

T 604-467-4319 E Media@MapleRidge.ca