Fireworks

Find out when you can set off fireworks, what rules to follow, how to report noise and how to reduce the environmental impact.

On this page

  1. When fireworks are allowed
  2. Follow fireworks rules
  3. Report fireworks noise
  4. Be a good neighbour
  5. Protect wildlife and the environment
  6. Get fireworks approval on other days

When you can have fireworks

In Waterloo, you can set off fireworks from 9 to 11 p.m. on these recognized holidays:

  • Canada Day – July 1, 2025
  • Victoria Day – May 18, 2026

You can set off fireworks from 8 to 10 p.m. on these recognized holidays:

  • Diwali or Deepavali – October 20 and 21, 2025
  • Lunar New Year – February 17, 2026

Fireworks are not allowed on other days without special approval.

Follow fireworks rules to stay safe

To set off fireworks legally in Waterloo, you must:

  • be at least 18 years old
  • use them only on private property (your own or with the owner’s permission)
  • stick to the 4 approved fireworks holidays

You can only use family fireworks, low-hazard fireworks designed for recreation, including roman candles, fountains, pinwheels and volcanoes. You cannot use Christmas crackers or paper caps.

Buying and selling fireworks

Starting January 2026, you cannot buy or sell fireworks in the City of Waterloo. Online purchases are still allowed.

Fireworks fines

You could be fined if you don't follow the bylaw:

  • $1,000 for a first offence
  • $2,000 for a second offence

View the Fireworks Bylaw for more details.

Report fireworks noise

Call 519-747-8785 to report fireworks noise. Please try to give us a specific address.

It’s challenging for officers to arrive in time to catch the people setting them off, especially in public spaces. Your report helps us track problem areas and repeat issues. 

Be a good neighbour

Fireworks can be stressful for pets, young children, shift workers and others. Let your neighbours know ahead of time if you're planning to set off fireworks so they can prepare.

Protect wildlife and our environment

Fireworks can scare wildlife, pollute water and damage sensitive areas. Before lighting fireworks:

  • check the wind and how dry the land is
  • avoid setting off fireworks near trees, woodlots, nesting areas or water systems
  • wait until after dusk, when most animals have finished feeding

Clean up any debris afterward.

Check our protected woodlots map to avoid sensitive natural areas.

Waterloo protected woodlots map
 Map of Waterloo that includes medium and large streets with zones identified that are environmental sensitive policy areas, Regional significant woodlands and environmentally sensitive landscapes

Get approval for fireworks on other days

You need approval to use fireworks outside the 4 recognized holidays.

  1. You must apply for a noise exemption and get approval from our municipal enforcement team at municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca.
  2. For larger fireworks displays you must hire someone with a fireworks operator certificate. Visit the Ministry of Natural Resources website for more certification information.