With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, the City of Port Coquitlam is reminding residents to celebrate safely. Fireworks can add excitement to the festivities, but they can also cause serious injury and property damage. Residents planning a fireworks display are encouraged to review the City’s regulations and follow all safety procedures.
Port Coquitlam Fireworks Regulations
Fireworks are regulated under Port Coquitlam’s Fire and Emergency Services Bylaw. The sale of fireworks is prohibited within the city, but fireworks may be set off under the following conditions:
A valid Fireworks Event Permit is required.
Fireworks may only be discharged on private property with the owner’s consent, or at an approved public event with written authorization from the Fire Chief.
Fireworks are not permitted on City property, including roads, parks, trails and sports fields.
Permits are valid only on Saturday, October 31, until 11 p.m.
Handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets and screechers are prohibited.
Violations may result in a $500 fine and/or formal enforcement proceedings for each incident. City staff and bylaw officers will conduct increased patrols and enforcement on Halloween night.
Applying for a Fireworks Event Permit
Permits cost $30 for low-hazard fireworks and $250 for high-hazard fireworks.
Applications must be submitted in person by Friday, October 30 at 1:00 p.m. at the Tax Office, Port Coquitlam City Hall (2580 Shaughnessy Street). City Hall is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and is closed on Halloween.
For more information, call 604.927.5466 or email [email protected].
Safe Fireworks Handling Tips
Residents holding a valid permit are reminded to take the following precautions:
Only adults should discharge fireworks.
Use a clear, open area away from buildings, trees, vehicles and dry grass.
Keep a bucket of water or sand, or a garden hose, nearby.
Make sure spectators watch from a safe distance.
Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, vehicles or structures.
Never hold fireworks in your hand while lighting them.
Soak used fireworks in water before discarding them.
Residents are also encouraged to be mindful of pets, as fireworks can cause stress and fear. The BC SPCA offers guidance on keeping pets safe during Halloween at spca.bc.ca/halloween.
Reporting Concerns
If there is an immediate, serious threat to safety or property, call 911. For non-emergency concerns:
During office hours, call Bylaw Services at 604.927.5440 or Fire & Emergency Services at 604.927.5466.
After hours, call the RCMP non-emergency line at 604.945.1550.
General Halloween Safety Tips
Choose flame-resistant costumes and avoid long or trailing fabric.
Give children a flashlight or glow item so they are visible to drivers.
Teach children to stay away from open flames and to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothing catches fire.
Use battery-operated or LED tealights instead of candles.
Keep decorations such as crepe paper, cornstalks and dried flowers away from heat sources and clear of exits.
Make sure smoke alarms are working and review your home escape plan.
Make sure all children know how to get out of the home in an emergency.
For more information about fireworks and Halloween safety, visit portcoquitlam.ca/fireworks.
