Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service reminds citizens that permits required for fireworks displays

Released: December 23, 2016 at 10:30 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB - The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) would like to remind citizens who may be planning to include fireworks displays as part of their New Year’s Eve celebrations that such displays require a permit in the City of Winnipeg.

Permits are free and may be obtained online at Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service - Fireworks Permit Application or at the Fire Prevention Office located at 185 King Street.

Completed fireworks permit applications must be submitted in person at the Fire Prevention Office. Please note that all civic offices are closed at 12 noon on Friday, December 23, and closed all day on Monday, December 26, and Tuesday, December 27, 2016.

Conditions for the issuance of a permit are:

  • A clear radius of 100 feet or 30 meters from any building in any direction is required.
  • The fireworks display and fallout zone must be on your own property or you must have written consent from the landowner, City of Winnipeg or Province of Manitoba.

If these conditions cannot be met, a permit will not be issued for the display. Unauthorized displays of fireworks could result in charges and fines of up to $500

The WFPS would also like to remind the public to be cautious when handling fireworks this New Year’s Eve. If you choose to hold a fireworks display with retail fireworks, please keep the following fireworks safety tips in mind:

  • Obtain a permit from the WFPS.
  • Only use fireworks purchased in Canada meeting all safety standards.
  • Read all instructions, cautions and warnings on each firework item.
  • Only adults, 18 years or older should handle fireworks
  • Set up fireworks outdoors in a clear, open space. A clear radius of 100 feet or 30 meters from any building in any direction is required.
  • Be aware of overhead wires or obstructions.
  • Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface to ensure stability while checking the wind to ensure it is blowing away from spectators.
  • Have a bucket of sand, supply of water and a working fire extinguisher on hand.
  • Never attempt to re-light a 'dud' or defective firework.
  • Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand.
  • Fireworks should be disposed of safely, properly and any unused fireworks should be stored in a closed container.

For more information, visit Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service - Fireworks or contact 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by phone or by email at
311@winnipeg.ca.

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