While fireworks can add excitement to a Halloween event, the City is reminding residents they can also cause serious injury and property damage. Before planning a fireworks event in Port Coquitlam, residents should familiarize themselves with the regulations and safe handling procedures..
Port Coquitlam Fireworks Regulations
Port Coquitlam’s fire regulations ban the sale of fireworks within the City, but they allow them to be set off under specific conditions:
- A Fireworks Event Permit is required from the City.
- Fireworks can only be discharged on private property with the owner’s consent or at a public event with written permission from the Fire Chief.
- Fireworks are not allowed on City property, including roadways, parks, trails, and sports fields.
- Permits are valid only on October 31 until 11:00 p.m.
- Fireworks handlers must be at least 18 years old.
- Roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and screechers are prohibited
Those found violating these regulations may be subject to a $500.00 fine and/or formal enforcement proceedings for each incident. The City will have increased patrols and security measures in place on Halloween.
Applying for a Fireworks Event Permit
- Permits cost $30 for low-hazard fireworks and $250 for high-hazard fireworks.
- Permit applications must be submitted in person by Thursday, October 31 at 3:00 p.m. at the Tax Office, Port Coquitlam City Hall, 2580 Shaughnessy Street. City Hall is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
- For more information, call 604.927.5466 or email [email protected].
Safe Fireworks Handling Tips for Permit Holders
- Only adults should discharge fireworks.
- Choose a safe area—such as a bare area of ground—away from buildings, trees, vehicles, dry grass, and other flammable objects.
- Have a large bucket of water, sand, or a garden hose ready.
- Ensure spectators watch from a safe distance.
- Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, cars, or buildings.
- Never hold fireworks in your hand while lighting them.
- Dispose of spent fireworks in a container of water.
Residents are also reminded to be considerate of pets, as they can be frightened and stressed by fireworks. The BC SPCA offers tips for keeping pets safe at spca.bc.ca/Halloween.
Halloween Safety Tips
- Purchase flame-resistant costumes and keep fire safety in mind when creating a costume.
- Avoid costumes with long, trailing pieces that may ignite if near a candle.
- Provide children with a flashlight for visibility or as part of their costume.
- Teach children to avoid open flames and other heat sources, and instruct them on how to STOP, DROP, and ROLL in case their costume catches fire.
- Decorate with flameless LED tealights instead of candles for a similar effect.
- Keep combustible decorations like crepe paper, cornstalks, and dried flowers away from heat sources, and ensure exits remain clear.
- Install working smoke alarms and practice home escape plans.
- Make sure all children in the home know the location of exits in case of an emergency.
For more information on Halloween and fireworks safety, visit portcoquitlam.ca/fireworks.