With both Halloween and Diwali celebrations coinciding on October 31, Brampton bylaw officers are reminding residents of the strict fireworks ban in effect. As the city braces for a festive week, officials are urging residents to avoid using fireworks or face significant fines.
Diwali, a festival symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists, has seen a growing trend of fireworks in Brampton. However, this year, the city is reinforcing its fireworks ban, introduced after a surge of complaints during Diwali celebrations in 2022.
Fireworks Ban and Associated Fines
The ban, which covers nearly all types of personal fireworks, was implemented to address public safety and noise concerns. While sparklers are the only exempted fireworks, residents caught setting off any other kind of pyrotechnics could face:
- A $500 fine for setting off illegal fireworks.
- A $1,000 fine for selling fireworks.
- Property owners permitting fireworks use on their premises may also face penalties, with the maximum fine reaching up to $100,000.
Despite the declining trend in complaints since the ban’s enforcement, city officials continue to emphasize compliance to maintain safety during Diwali and Halloween festivities.
Free Fireworks Display at City’s Diwali Mela
For those looking forward to fireworks, the City of Brampton is hosting its largest fireworks show on November 1 at the Diwali Mela event in Sesquicentennial Park. The free, family-friendly event begins at 7:30 p.m. and includes performances by local and international artists such as Gurpreet Maan, G. Sidhu, Chani Nattan, Inderpal Moga, the Nachdi Jawani Bhangra Team, Taaj Entertainment, and DJ Prince.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the city-run fireworks display instead of engaging in personal use, which carries substantial penalties.
Reporting Illegal Fireworks
Residents can report illegal fireworks use by calling 311 at any time, day or night.
For more information on the fireworks ban and Diwali Mela event, visit the City of Brampton’s official website.