Fireworks reminder leading up to Victoria Day holiday

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BRANTFORD, ON – The City of Brantford and the Brantford Fire Department remind residents that the use of fireworks is permitted on Victoria Day, May 19, 2025, or the three calendar days leading up to the holiday (May 16, 17 and 18, 2025) as long as they meet the safety requirements and by-law restrictions. In 2024, the City of Brantford’s by-law department charged over 30 individuals with a $150 fine for setting off fireworks on school property, in a park or on the street.

Important Fireworks Safety Criteria

Due to the specific nature of fireworks, only a small percentage of properties in Brantford meet the required safety standards for a fireworks display. If fireworks shoot 90 feet into the air, the fallout zone must extend 180 feet in all directions, this is twice the height of the fireworks. Failure to comply with these standards can result in unsafe conditions for yourself, your family, and your neighbours.

As most individual properties do not meet the fall out zone criteria, it is suggested that participating neighbours combine efforts by coordinating a joint display among multiple adjoining backyard spaces to expand the fall out zone and in effect, enhancing safety. It is also recommended that those purchasing fireworks do so from a knowledgeable vendor who can advise them on discharge heights and which fireworks are most appropriate for the area they will be set off. 

Key Restrictions

  • Fireworks are not permitted in City parks, school property or on any City streets.
  • Fireworks may only be discharged on private property, provided the area meets the required safety zone. 
  • Written permission from the property owner is required if you are not the owner of the property where fireworks are discharged, or the property where fireworks debris is landing.

Critical Requirements

Please note that as outlined below, most properties in the City of Brantford do not meet the size criteria required for safe fireworks displays. 

  • The fallout zone must be twice the height of the fireworks in all directions. Ensure your space is adequate before proceeding.
  • Fireworks must be discharged between sunset and 11:00 p.m.
  • No public spaces, including City parks or any City streets can be used for fireworks displays.
  • Fireworks must be set off in calm weather conditions and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Ensure a means of extinguishment is close by, and all debris is properly cleaned up to prevent fire hazards.

If the Brantford Fire Department is dispatched due to unsafe fireworks use, you may be charged for the cost of the response under the City’s Fees and Charges By-law. Additionally, fines may apply for non-compliance with the Fireworks By-law.

If you notice that fireworks are being set off in City of Brantford parks or on City property or roadways, please call the City of Brantford By-law Department at 519-759-4150. If you notice that fireworks are being set off in a manner that is a fire hazard (i.e. falling on neighbouring roofs, unsafe use), please contact the Brantford Fire Department by calling 9-1-1.

For more detailed information on safe fireworks use and regulations, please visit Brantford.ca/FireworksSafety

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