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As residents in Newmarket and Aurora plan their Canada Day activities, Central York Fire Services (CYFS) reminds everyone to keep fire safety top of mind, plan for safe fireworks use in accordance with local by-laws and to get out and enjoy the many Town hosted events.

In Newmarket and Aurora fireworks are only permitted for use during Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends. Fireworks are NOT allowed on public property, including parks, streets and open fields/spaces in Newmarket and Aurora. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Newmarket start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks By-law 2015-18. Fines for improper use of fireworks in Aurora start at $600 in accordance with Fireworks By-law 5373-11.

Residents can report bylaw infractions, such as the use of fireworks, by calling:

  • Town of Newmarket: 905-895-5193 (press 3 for after hours line)
  • Town of Aurora: 905-727-3123 and follow the prompts for after hours bylaw service.

When reporting illegal fireworks use, please provide clear details on the street address or known location where the incident is happening – this is important information to support enforcement.

Residents should not rely on social media to file real-time complaints with the Town as social media channels are not monitored on evenings and weekends. 

Before you consider purchasing fireworks, go through this checklist to ensure you can follow local by-laws and follow tips for safe handling, use and disposal.

Rules & Regulations when using fireworks

  • Property limits: You are only permitted to use fireworks on your own property and only if the front of your property is a minimum of 18 metres (59 ft.) wide. If you are renting, you must have written permission from the homeowner to use fireworks.
  • Date: Fireworks are only permitted on specific dates per Town.
    • Newmarket residents: June 30, July 1 and 2
    • Aurora residents: June 30 and July 1
  • Time: only use fireworks between dusk (approximately 9:30 p.m.) and 11 p.m.
  • User: You must be 18 years of age or older to discharge fireworks.

Tips for safe fireworks use

  • Buy from a reliable, licensed source: steer clear of illegal explosives and never make your own. Only sparkler fireworks, fountain fireworks, roman candles and pinwheel fireworks are allowable for general consumer sale and use. The Town of Newmarket licenses fireworks vendors which permits vendors to sell fireworks seven days prior to and including Canada Day and Victoria Day.
  • Handle with caution: fireworks must be handled by an adult. Carefully read and follow directions on the label of fireworks packaging.
  • Prepare the space: only use fireworks outside and have a water source handy and ready to use (buckets of water or garden hose turned on). Be aware and cautious of surrounding dry vegetation which can be flammable.
  • Igniting fireworks: keep children far away from the discharge site.
    • Always aim the fireworks away from people and buildings.
    • Never hold the fireworks in your hand when lighting or discharging.
    • Do not smoke while handling or near fireworks.
    • Light only one firework at a time. Never set off fireworks during strong winds
    • Never re-light a dud firework. Wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak the dud in a bucket of water
    • Never throw or point fireworks at other people
    • Wear eye protection and never have any part of their body over the firework
  • Clean up & disposal: Pick up debris when finished and check for embers or smoldering materials. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper disposal of fireworks.
  • Please be considerate of pets and neighbours. 

Animal Services at the Town of Aurora and Town of Newmarket offer proactive tips for dog owners:

1. Avoid letting your dog outdoors at times when fireworks are likely to go off. 

2. Create a ‘safe place’ inside your home for your dog to hide from fireworks, such as a crate or bedroom.

3. Make sure windows and doors are closed and draw the curtains or cover the windows to minimize the lights from the fireworks.

4. Make sure that your dogs are microchipped and that their microchip details are up to date (in the event they get out).

Enjoy Town of Aurora and Newmarket Events

The Towns of Newmarket and Aurora are offering full days of fun for everyone this Canada Day.

In Aurora: Come to Dance in the Park on Friday, June 30 at Aurora Town Park from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. or check out the Canada Day Parade in Aurora on Saturday, July 1 starting at 10 a.m. The parade travels north on Yonge Street from Edward Street to Aurora Heights Drive. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. enjoy a full day of entertainment and activities at Lambert Willson Park and the AFLC, capped off with an incredible fireworks show at Lambert Willson Park.

In Newmarket: Spend the day at Riverwalk Commons (200 Doug Duncan Drive) for the Tim Hortons Canada Day concert & festival, then head over to George Richardson Park (Bayview Parkway) for spectacular evening concert and fireworks show.

Full Canada Day events details at aurora.ca/canadaday and newmarket.ca/canadaday.

Residents travelling out of town to the cottage, trailer or camp site are encouraged to check the local fireworks and outdoor burning bylaws, along with burn bans, to follow the rules of the area.

For more information, safety tips and links to Town by-laws, visit cyfs.ca