Diwali celebrations: Plan ahead – Know the rules for using fireworks in Mississauga

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by many people in Mississauga. The holiday symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and is often marked with gatherings, decorations, diyas, candles and fireworks.

If fireworks are part of your celebration plans, make sure you know the rules and take steps to keep everyone safe. Ensure the celebration is enjoyable for neighbours and the wider community.

When you can use fireworks

Under the City’s Fireworks By-law, you can use family fireworks on your own private property for Diwali on November 8 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

You cannot use fireworks:

• On roads
• On sidewalks
• In parking lots
• On other public property

You need a permit from the City if you want to:

• Use fireworks on a different day
• Hold a fireworks display in a City park or public place

The City will have extra Municipal By-law Enforcement officers on duty during Diwali to help keep celebrations safe.

Do not call 911 for fireworks complaints unless there is an immediate danger, like a fire or someone is hurt. To report illegal fireworks, call 311, submit it online, or visit mississauga.ca/fireworks.

Fireworks safety tips

Fireworks can cause serious injuries and fires if they are not used properly.

Before using fireworks:

• Buy them from licensed sellers. You must be 18 or older.
• Do not buy or use Roman candles. They are prohibited in Mississauga.
• Read and follow all instructions.
• Use them in a clear, open area on your property.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
• Point fireworks away from people, homes, trees and vehicles.
• Keep children supervised at all times.
• Make sure spectators stand a safe distance away.

When you’re done, soak used fireworks in water overnight before putting them in the garbage.

Remember to clean up all fireworks debris after your celebration.

Fire safety at home

Many Diwali celebrations include candles, diyas and cooking. A few simple safety steps can help prevent fires and injuries.

Candles and diyas

• Place candles and diyas on a stable surface that will not burn.
• Keep them away from curtains, decorations, furniture and clothing.
• Never leave them unattended.
• Keep them away from children and pets.
• Consider using battery-operated candles instead.

Kitchen safety

Cooking remains one of the leading causes of fires. When cooking:

• Stay in the kitchen.
• Turn off appliances if you leave the room.
• Keep towels and anything that can catch fire away from the stove.
• Never use barbecues or portable gas stoves indoors.
• Be careful when cooking with hot oil.

Be a considerate neighbour

Diwali is a time to celebrate, but it’s also important to be considerate of others living nearby. Plan for your guests, parking and noise before the celebration begins.

Keep noise down

If you’re hosting a gathering, try to keep noise to a reasonable level, especially late at night.

Learn more about the City’s Noise Control By-law.

Avoid nuisance gatherings

Activities such as illegal fireworks, excessive noise or behaviour that disturbs neighbours can be seen as a nuisance gathering and can lead to fines or other enforcement measures.

If a gathering is causing problems in your neighbourhood, call 311.

Learn more about the City’s Nuisance Gathering By-law.

Park legally

Guests should follow all parking rules.

• On-street parking is allowed from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
• Do not block fire hydrants, sidewalks or driveways.
• Do not park in no-parking zones.

Longer stays may require a temporary parking permit.

Before November 8, take three steps: check the rules, choose a safe location on your property and have water ready. By planning ahead, you can help make celebrations safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Learn more

Visit mississauga.ca/fireworks to learn about fireworks rules, permits and how to report illegal fireworks.

For fire safety tips, visit mississauga.ca/fire.

By following the rules and putting safety first, everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable Diwali.

Tags

• Enforcement and Fines
• Fire and Emergency Services
• Public Safety