City of Kitchener receives nearly 50 fireworks complaints over long weekend
Posted May 24, 2023 07:14:50 AM.
A busy long weekend for City of Kitchener by-law officers.
The City confirms to CityNews Kitchener, 48 complaint calls came in Sunday through Monday regarding fireworks.
This was the first holiday the new fireworks bylaw was in effect, stating that fireworks could only be set off on the day of holiday, wrapping up before 11 p.m.
Earlier this month, Kitchener City Council approved the recommendation that will also impact fireworks use around Canada Day and Diwali.
Heading into the long weekend, Gloria MacNeil, Director of Enforcement with the City of Kitchener, said the city would take an education first approach when it came to warning residents about the new fireworks rules.
“We understand that some people may not be aware of the change to the bylaw,” MacNeil explained. “Our goal would certainly be to reach out to people, advise them of the changes, let them know what the regulations currently are, and hopefully educate them so it doesn’t happen again.”
MacNeil stated that the maximum fine for breaking the fireworks bylaw would be $5,000 along with a summons to court.
She added that fines can also be handed out where there are safety concerns and/or the fireworks user is refusing to stop.
