Fireworks top of mind for police ahead of May long weekend
Posted May 16, 2025 02:43:53 PM.
Last Updated May 17, 2025 12:03:32 PM.
Fireworks are a hot topic in Waterloo Region.
The last few years have seen chaotic and violent incidents involving fireworks at Victoria Park in Kitchener. That has led to a ban of the sale of fireworks in both Kitchener and Waterloo, along with stiffer penalties for violating relevant bylaws.
The issue, those regulations don’t come into effect until January 2026, meaning the existing rules are still in effect.
Constable Chris Iden, Waterloo Regional Police told 570 NewsRadio, anyone planning a home fireworks display is required to know the regulations for the city where they live.
“Every municipality has different laws and different bylaws. What we’re asking is if you are planning on enjoying the day with fireworks, just make sure you are abiding by your regional and municipal bylaws.”
For example, in Kitchener fireworks are only permitted on the actual day of the holiday. So, for Victoria Day, 2025, that day is May 19. It’s similar in Cambridge but in Waterloo, displays are also permitted on the day before and day after.
Iden said for the most part, bylaw officers are responsible for enforcing the rules, but police are there to step in when needed.
“If it’s something where it’s a complaint or somebody is making a nuisance call or anything like that, they have to decide if this something we need to have bylaw attend for and address it appropriately, or is there safety concerns. That’s were you would need to contact police or other emergency services.”
Iden did admit that the past problems in Victoria Park have weighed heavy on the minds of police and that area will get extra attention this weekend.
“Officers in our central division, they will be floating around the area. We are well aware of what’s going on. We expect to have bylaw also be a presence in the area with their mobile units.”
He went on to say the public has a responsibility here too, “As much we want to be everywhere at once, we ask people to just be respectful.”
Kitchener Fireworks regulations
