Firework bylaw reminders for Diwali

This Sunday, Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, will be celebrated by some residents in Waterloo Region.

It is one of three holidays, including Canada Day and Victoria Day, that allow for fireworks to be used without a permit. The City of Waterloo also allows for the Lunar New Year in February.

Used fireworks can be disposed in regular garbage bins. The region suggests soaking them in water for 24 hours before disposal.

Those with fireworks complaints in the tri-cities should call the Waterloo Regional Police Service non-emergency line at 519-570-9777. If there is an emergency, residents should call 911.

Here is a breakdown of all the bylaws in the cities:

City of Cambridge

• Private firework displays are allowed between dusk and 11 p.m. on Diwali
• They cannot be set off in public spaces, including parks
• Recommendations on safe and proper use can be found on the Cambridge’s website

City of Waterloo

• “Family Fireworks”, such as roman candles, pinwheels, fountains and volcanoes can be set off one day before and one day after Diwali from dusk to 11 p.m.
• Those who are 18 years and older can operate fireworks
• Regulations can be found on the Waterloo’s website

City of Kitchener

• Fireworks can be set off until 11 p.m. on Diwali
• Residents must meet the setback requirements before lighting fireworks
• Fireworks cannot be used on publicly owned lands, including parks and schools
• A list of safety recommendations can be found here