TORONTO, June 30, 2026 – With Canada Day approaching, the City of Toronto is reminding residents that consumer fireworks may be set off without a permit on July 1 before 11 p.m., but only on private property they own. Fireworks are prohibited in parks, on beaches, condominium balconies, streets, parking lots and property that does not belong to the person setting them off. Depending on the location and violation, fines may range from $600 to $1,000.
Canada Day and Victoria Day are the two designated dates when Toronto residents may set off consumer fireworks on their own private property without a permit. Anyone wishing to use fireworks on another date must apply for a city permit at least 10 business days in advance.
Even on Canada Day, residents may use only ordinary low-hazard consumer fireworks and must stop by 11 p.m. Continuing to set off fireworks after that time may result in a $700 fine.
The city specifically prohibits fireworks in municipal parks, on beaches, streets, parking lots and condominium balconies. Possessing or setting off fireworks in a park may result in a fine of up to $600. Using them in a public space or on private property without the owner’s permission may also lead to a fine of up to $700.
Children and youth under 18 are not permitted to set off fireworks on their own. Parents or guardians who allow a minor to use fireworks may face a fine of up to $1,000.
Residents purchasing fireworks should buy them only from retailers licensed by the City of Toronto to sell fireworks. Prohibited products such as smoke bombs, exploding matches and imitation firecrackers must not be purchased or used.
Fireworks should be set off away from buildings, trees, vehicles and flammable materials, with the manufacturer’s recommended safety distance maintained. The city recommends keeping a bucket of water or a functioning garden hose nearby and lighting only one firework at a time.
If a firework fails to ignite, residents should wait at least 30 minutes before approaching it and then soak it in water. They should not attempt to relight, open or repair it.
Used or unused fireworks should be completely soaked in water and left overnight. Afterward, no more than 10 should be placed in the regular garbage at one time. Fireworks must not be placed in the blue recycling bin because they can cause fires in collection vehicles or processing facilities.
Residents can contact 311 to report fireworks being used illegally in a city park or on a beach, or to report suspected illegal sales. Anyone facing a fire, injury or other immediate danger should call 911.
Fireworks noise can also frighten pets and cause them to run away. Pet owners can prepare by closing doors and windows, keeping animals indoors, and confirming that the contact information connected to pet licences and microchips is up to date.（LJI by Yuanyuan）
