NEWS RELEASE
CENTRAL YORK FIRE SERVICES
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As residents in Newmarket and Aurora plan their Canada Day celebrations, Central York Fire Services (CYFS) reminds everyone to keep fire safety top of mind, plan for safe fireworks use in accordance with local bylaws and to get out and enjoy the many celebrations hosted by the towns.
In Newmarket and Aurora fireworks are only permitted for sale and use during Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends. Fireworks are NOT allowed on public property, including parks, streets and open fields/spaces in Newmarket and Aurora. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Newmarket start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks Bylaw 2015-18. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Aurora start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks Bylaw 5373-11.
Residents can report bylaw infractions, such as the use of fireworks, by calling:
- Town of Newmarket: 905-895-5193 (press 3 for after-hours line)
- Town of Aurora: 905-727-3123 and follow the prompts for after-hours bylaw service.
When reporting illegal fireworks use, please provide clear details on the street address or known location where the incident is happening – this is important information to support enforcement. Residents should not rely on social media to file real-time complaints with the Town as social media channels are not monitored on evenings and weekends.
Before you consider purchasing fireworks, go through this checklist to ensure you can follow local by-laws and follow tips for safe handling, use and disposal.
Rules & Regulations when using fireworks
- Property limits: You are only permitted to use fireworks on your own property and only if the front of your property is a minimum of 18 metres (59 ft.) wide. If you are renting, you must have written permission from the homeowner to use fireworks.
- Date: Fireworks are only permitted on specific dates per Town.
- Newmarket residents: June 30, July 1 and 2
- Aurora residents: June 30 and July 1
- Time: only use fireworks between dusk (approximately 9:30 p.m.) and 11 p.m.
- User: You must be 18 years of age or older to discharge fireworks.
Tips for safe fireworks use
- Buy from a reliable source: steer clear of illegal explosives and never make your own. Only sparkler fireworks, fountain fireworks, roman candles and pinwheel fireworks are allowable for general consumer sale and use.
- Handle with caution: fireworks must be handled by an adult. Carefully read and follow directions on the label of fireworks packaging.
- Prepare the space: only use fireworks outside and have a water source handy and ready to use (buckets of water or garden hose turned on). Be aware and cautious of surrounding dry vegetation which can be flammable.
- Igniting fireworks: keep children far away from the discharge site.
- Always aim the fireworks away from people and buildings.
- Never hold the fireworks in your hand when lighting or discharging.
- Do not smoke while handling or near fireworks.
- Light only one firework at a time. Never set off fireworks during strong winds
- Never re-light a dud firework. Wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak the dud in a bucket of water
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people
- Wear eye protection and never have any part of their body over the firework
- Clean up & disposal: Pick up debris when finished and check for embers or smoldering materials. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper disposal of fireworks.
- Please be considerate of pets and neighbours.
Enjoy Town of Aurora and Newmarket Celebrations
The Towns of Newmarket and Aurora are offering full days of fun for everyone to celebrate Canada Day.
In Aurora: Come Dance in the Park or check out the Canada Day Parade in Aurora, and enjoy a full day of entertainment and activities, capped off with an incredible fireworks show at Lambert Willson Park.
In Newmarket: Spend the day downtown at the Tim Hortons Canada Day concert & festival, then head over to George Richardson Park for spectacular evening concert and fireworks show.
Full Canada Day celebration details at aurora.ca/canadaday and newmarket.ca/canadaday.
Residents travelling out of town to the cottage or trailer are encouraged to check the local fireworks and outdoor burning bylaws, along with burn bans, to follow the rules of the area.
For more information, safety tips and links to bylaws, visit cyfs.ca.
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