Here’s what you need to know about fireworks in Brampton this weekend

Victoria Day and the long weekend were once the time when fireworks ruled in Canada.

Not anymore. And that is particularly true in Brampton.

While the old-time “firecracker day” has disappeared, it has been replaced by a day where residents have been respectfully told to keep quiet and look to other communities where pyrotechnic celebrations will be taking place…but most neighbouring municipalities also have similar bans in place.

Simply, all fireworks are prohibited in Brampton. The ban includes the use, sale, offer, display, purchase, distribution, possession and discharge of any fireworks or explosives within the city.

Fireworks are defined as, but are not limited to, consumer fireworks (such as roman candles, fountains, ground spinners, burning school houses), display fireworks (such as rockets, bombshells, maroons) and prohibited fireworks (such as flying lanterns, cherry bombs, M-80s, flash bombs).

Sparklers, however, are permitted.

The only time fireworks are allowed now are at city-led events on Canada Day, New Year’s Eve, and permitted Diwali events.

Brampton put the ban in place in 2022 for a number of official reasons that include reducing the risk of injury and property damage, reducing air pollution, reducing excessive noise and protecting habitats.

Those are the official reasons, but Brampton residents know that the use of fireworks had previously gotten out of hand, especially around Diwali, when personal fireworks were being deployed for days and often all through the night.

Although the ban is in place, bylaw enforcement officers will be out patrolling this weekend for those who are likely to still light the fuse on some explosives.

For those who are caught breaking the law, the fines can be steep and range from $500 to $1,000 and can go as high as $100,000 if a court summons is issued.