Fireworks are prohibited in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows

As Halloween, Diwali and other fall celebrations approach, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are reminding residents that fireworks are not permitted. The rules are intended to prevent injuries and fires, and to protect pets and wildlife.

Under the cities’ bylaws, selling, possessing, discharging or setting off fireworks or firecrackers without a valid permit is unlawful. The prohibition includes bottle rockets, screechers, roman candles, fountains, and other noise-producing or recreational fireworks.

Anyone planning a fireworks display in Maple Ridge must apply for a Special Fireworks Permit, which costs $200. The display must be at an approved location a safe distance from buildings, roads, railways, overhead lines, trees and other hazards. A controlled viewing area must keep the public at least 45 metres from the launch site. At least two qualified fireworks operators must be on site, including one certified Fireworks Supervisor. Fire extinguishers and other required safety measures are also required, as is at least $5 million in liability insurance naming the City as an additional insured. A display may be cancelled or restricted if weather or fire conditions are unsafe.

During Halloween and other fall celebrations, Maple Ridge bylaws officers, the fire department and RCMP will respond to fireworks-related complaints. Anyone found in violation may be directed to surrender fireworks and could face a fine of $500 to $1,000.

To report the sale or use of fireworks or firecrackers in Maple Ridge, contact the City’s bylaws department at Bylaws@MapleRidge.ca or call 604-467-7305. For non-emergencies, call RCMP at 604-463-6251; for emergencies, call 9-1-1. More information is at MapleRidge.ca/Fireworks (https://www.mapleridge.ca/community-safety/fire-rescue/fire-prevention/outdoor-fire-safety/fireworks?check_logged_in=1&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Know-the-Fireworks-Rules-%E2%80%93-Celebrate-Safety-in-Maple-Ridge&utm_source=Envoke-202583%7C202584%7C202586%7C202589&utm_term=Know-the-Fireworks-Rules-%E2%80%93-Celebrate-Safety-in-Maple-Ridge).

In Pitt Meadows, residents can report a bylaw infraction online at pittmeadows.ca/bylaws (https://www.pittmeadows.ca/city-hall/bylaw-services) for the quickest response, or call 604-465-2428. After hours, they can call the RCMP non-emergency line at 778-670-9010.