Stay Safe This Summer: Know the Fireworks Rules and Be FireSmart

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With Canada Day approaching and outdoor activities picking up, the City of Maple Ridge is reminding residents that fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited and encouraging everyone to do their part to reduce wildfire risk.

Residents are encouraged to take part in the City’s expanded Canada Day activities, which includes enhanced live entertainment and family-friendly activities from 2:00 to 10:00 p.m.

“With hot, dry conditions and higher wildfire risk across our region, one spark can do serious damage,” said Maple Ridge Fire Chief Dave Samson. “We ask everyone to celebrate safely, responsibly and help us protect our community, our homes and our natural spaces.”

Fireworks and Firecrackers Are Not Allowed
The sale, possession and use of fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited in Maple Ridge. In line with the provincial Coastal Fire Centre Category 2 Fire Ban, fireworks permits will not be issued. 

City Bylaw officers and Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue Services will be monitoring and responding to fireworks complaints throughout the summer, including during Canada Day celebrations.

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

Be Fire Safe This Summer  
Residents are reminded to take extra precautions during dry summer conditions:

  • Smoking is not allowed in City parks and trails.  
  • Never leave barbecues or gas campfire devices unattended.  
  • Dispose of smoking materials properly, never on the ground or in planters.  
  • Avoid using equipment that can create sparks near dry grass or brush.  
  • Category 2 and Category 3 open fires remain prohibited (including burn barrels, burn cages, air curtain burners, controlled air incinerators, carbonizers, binary exploding targets and fireworks)
  • Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 9-1-1. 
  • To report an unattended fire or wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell

“Our crews are committed to keeping parks clean and safe, but we rely on everyone to do their part,” said Michelle Adams, Director of Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety. “Whether it’s reporting fireworks, disposing of smoking materials properly or keeping parks clean—small actions make a real difference during wildfire season.”

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

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

City Advancing Wildfire Resiliency Work
The City is launching its FireSmart program this summer after receiving $150,000 through the Union of BC Municipalities Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) program to strengthen local wildfire preparedness and response, particularly within wildfire urban interface areas. The funding will support:

  • updates to the City’s Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan
  • a temporary full-time FireSmart Coordinator for 12 months
  • expanded FireSmart education and outreach 
  • establishment of a Local FireSmart Collective Program
  • Involvement with First Nations and community interest holders

Be Emergency Ready and Aware
Residents are encouraged to create a household emergency plan and ensure every member of the household knows what to do if an evacuation alert (be ready to leave) or order (leave immediately) is issued. Emergency plans should include evacuation routes, communication plans, and considerations for children, seniors, pets, livestock, and anyone with mobility, medical, or language needs.

Sign up for alerts from the City at MapleRidge.ca/Alert, follow the City’s social media channels @YourMapleRidge and the BC Wildfire Service for updates on wildfire activity.

For additional information, contact: Edd Bennett Corporate Emergency Program Manager
EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca.