More Fireworks Coming to Mississauga!

If you're a big fan of festive fireworks, we've got good news for you—the city is going to allow fireworks during Diwali and Chinese New Year.

Today at general committee, city council approved a permanent exemption to the fireworks bylaw and the exemption will allow fireworks to be set off during Diwali and Chinese New Year. Basically, this means that people celebrating those holidays won't need special permits to highlight cultural celebrations with some distinctly fancy sky fire.

As of now, the relevant bylaws only waive permit requirements for Victoria and Canada Day.

"We appreciate that fireworks are an important part of many holidays celebrated within our diverse city," said Tim Beckett, Fire Chief, Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services. "Although fireworks can be fun to watch, we want to remind residents that with fireworks comes added safety concerns. We encourage all residents to read and understand safe fireworks procedures before setting them off."

The exemption for Chinese New Year will apply to the first day of the holiday. Since Diwali celebrations take place over several days, Mississauga's fire chief will specify the exemption date each year.

Council will officially approve the recommendation during the city council meeting on Wednesday, October 26.

While this news is certainly great for people who want to celebrate important cultural events without having to get permits, there are safety concerns that all residents should keep in mind when lighting fireworks.

The city is reminding everyone that:

* fireworks cannot be set off on a public street or roadway;

* fireworks can only be set off in a park if a permit is obtained from the Fire Chief; and

* fireworks should only be purchased from a licensed retailer permitted to sell fireworks to the general public within the city of Mississauga.