What changed
The City of Calgary announced stronger fireworks enforcement and a new offence to deter unauthorized fireworks use. Council approved amendments to the Fire Operations and Fees Bylaw.
There are three changes:
- Fines for selling fireworks increase from $750 to $3,000.
- Fines for discharging fireworks without a permit increase from $500 to $1,000.
- A new offence carries a $1,000 fine for carrying or setting up fireworks for use in a public place.
The City says the new offence allows enforcement officers to intervene when people are preparing to set up fireworks in parks, streets or other public spaces before they are discharged, helping prevent unsafe activity.
The City says the amendments come in response to ongoing concerns about unauthorized fireworks activity in Calgary. Between 2023 and 2025, The City received 183 fireworks-related service requests through 311.
Glenn Baxter, Fire Marshal, Calgary Fire Department, says the changes are about protecting public safety while supporting safe and responsible celebrations, and that the bylaw amendments give enforcement partners stronger tools. Ryan Pleckaitis, Chief, Community Standards, says that by increasing penalties and introducing a new offence for the open display of fireworks in public places, the City is reinforcing a simple message: public safety comes first.
The City also says it is recommending a community-led, City-supported approach to celebrations that use fireworks, and that it is committed to helping organizations access grants, permits, logistical support and event-planning assistance.
Over the past few months, The City developed a coordinated operational plan involving Emergency Management & Community Safety (EMCS), the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) and the Calgary Police Service (CPS) to improve planning, education and enforcement during peak periods such as Diwali, Stampede and New Years Eve.
What the official text says
> The bylaw changes will increase fines for selling fireworks from $750 to $3,000 and increase fines for discharging fireworks without a permit from $500 to $1,000.
> The updated bylaw will also introduce a new offence of a $1,000 fine for carrying or setting up fireworks for use in a public place.
Who is affected
Calgary residents, especially families who spend time in parks and other public spaces. People who carry or set up fireworks for use in a public place, as well as those who sell fireworks or discharge them without a permit, fall under the new fines.
When it starts
The bylaw amendments come into effect on September 22, 2026. The City news release was published on September 22, 2026. Implementation of the coordinated operational plans will begin in Q4 2026.
Official sources
https://newsroom.calgary.ca/city-implements-stronger-fireworks-enforcement-to-improve-public-safety/
Send this page