Fireworks

You need a permit to sell fireworks and perform a public display of fireworks within Kawartha Lakes as part of Firework By-Law 2007-236 (download). Starting May 18, 2021, you will need a permit to use consumer fireworks on private property outside of the designated approved days.

Under By-Law 2007-236 (download), permits have always been required for all types of display fireworks (professional fireworks such as pyrotechnic) and for consumer fireworks being discharged in public spaces, such as a park. The amendments to the By-law require residents to obtain a permit should they wish to discharge consumer fireworks on their own property for an event outside of the designated days and times outlined below.

The updated By-law limits the use of Consumer Fireworks without a permit, the day preceding, the day of, and the day following:

• Family Day (February 16, 17, and 18, 2025)
• Victoria Day (May 18, 19, and 20, 2025)
• Indigenous Peoples Day (June 20, 21, and 22, 2025)
• Canada Day (June 30, July 1, and 2, 2025) 
• Labour Day (August 30, September 1, and 2, 2025)
• New Years Eve (December 30, 31, 2025 and January 1, 2026) 

In addition, fireworks on these days will only be allowed to be set off between dusk and 11pm. Should residents wish to use fireworks outside of authorized days, a consumer fireworks permit for a special event must be obtained.

Obtaining a permit
Cost: $55.00
To obtain a permit for consumer fireworks for a special event or celebration, residents will be required to fill out an online application form for review and approval by the municipality and pay the required fee. Fire Services will require an application to be submitted 30 days in advance for a consumer fireworks special event application.

View the locations of approved permits for upcoming firework displays:

Other requirements to follow when using consumer fireworks include:

• children shall not discharge fireworks
• children may us a sparkler under the supervision of an adult
• fireworks may not be discharged into any motor vehicle, building or structure
• you must get written permission from the owner to discharge fireworks on property you do not own
• fireworks shall be discharged a minimum of 30m from any structure or property line
• fireworks may not be discharged closer than 100m from a church, school, residential care facility or place where explosives are sold or stored
• fireworks may not be discharged during a burn ban
• fireworks shall be discharged in accordance with the manufacturer's directions
• fireworks are not to be discharged on municipal lands without authorization