Should Fireworks Rules Be Stricter in Waterloo Region?

Official title: Fireworks Safety

Closed Regulations & Permits Housing & Communities Justice & Rights
Seven municipalities in Waterloo Region are teaming up to review fireworks bylaws. They want to know if you think current rules are working—or if stricter regulations are needed. Your feedback will shape recommendations going to each municipal council.

Why This Matters

Love setting off fireworks on Victoria Day? Hate the noise and mess they leave behind? Either way, this affects you. New rules could limit when and where you can use fireworks—or keep things as they are. Pet owners and veterans often push for restrictions. Fireworks fans want to keep the tradition alive.

What Could Change

Each municipality could update its fireworks bylaw with new restrictions. That might mean fewer permitted days, stricter noise limits, or designated areas only. Enforcement could also get tougher with higher fines. The region is aiming for coordinated rules so restrictions don't vary wildly between neighbouring towns.

Key Issues

  • Should fireworks be restricted to fewer days per year?
  • What do you value about fireworks, and what concerns you about their safety?
  • Should municipalities coordinate their fireworks bylaws across the region?

How to Participate

  1. Visit the consultation page to complete the online survey and share your views on fireworks safety.

What Happened

The consultation survey is closed and results are under review. Presentations have been made to Kitchener, Waterloo, and North Dumfries councils. Presentations to Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich councils are still pending.