What you need to know about using fireworks in Mississauga

For many, fireworks are a staple for celebrations and special occasions. Whether for a holiday, celebration or event, or for religious or cultural reasons, the bright lights, beautiful colours and sounds can be nostalgic. In Mississauga, the use of fireworks is regulated by rules, guidelines and the City’s Fireworks by-law to ensure safety and enjoyment for everyone in the community. It’s important for all residents to be familiar with the City’s Fireworks By-law, and to understand what fireworks are, what fireworks are prohibited, how and when they can be used, and the safety considerations surrounding their use.

Always make safety a priority – for you and those around you.

What are fireworks?

Fireworks are pyrotechnic-explosive devices designed for aesthetic and entertainment purposes. They are designed to produce visual and auditory effects by combustion, explosion or a combination of both. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and effects, often featuring vibrant colours and intricate patterns.

Fireworks can be categorized into two types according to National Resources Canada:

• Consumer fireworks: Designed for outdoor enjoyment and can be used by the public. Examples include fountains, wheels or volcanoes. However, they come with certain regulations that must be followed.
• Novelty devices: Are mostly used outdoors, depending on the type. These devices, such as sparklers, produce limited visible or audible effects and contain small amounts of pyrotechnic composition.

Why does the City allow fireworks?

Fireworks provide a means for people to celebrate. They play a role in preserving cultural identity, observing religious traditions, and uniting communities through shared experiences. For many Mississauga residents, fireworks are more than just entertainment and can be meaningful symbols. They can be used to mark moments of joy or historic events. Fireworks can also help people connect with their heritage, spiritual beliefs, and celebrate with a sense of awe, unity and pride.

Allowing fireworks within the limits set by the City’s Fireworks by-law respects Mississauga’s cultural diversity while prioritizing public safety and community well-being. These rules help strengthen community connections while reducing the harmful impacts fireworks can have on pets, wildlife and the environment. Together, this approach supports a more inclusive, vibrant city that reflects the people who call Mississauga home.

New fireworks rules in Mississauga

On October 15, 2025, Mississauga City Council voted to amend the Fireworks By-law to add further restrictions, which include:

• Reducing the hours when fireworks can be used (6 to 10 p.m. on Lunar New Year, Victoria Day, Canada Day and Diwali; 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. on New Year’s Eve).
• Prohibiting the sale, use, possession and distribution of Roman Candle fireworks.
• Restricting the sale of fireworks to 10 days before the holiday, but not the day of.
• Requiring fireworks vendors to provide the City with a registry of their fireworks inventory and sales.
• Only issuing permits for display or professional fireworks (no permits will be issued for consumer fireworks).

These changes were approved by Council on December 10, 2025, and have been in effect as of January 2, 2026.

Using fireworks safely in Mississauga

Understanding how to safely use fireworks can help prevent injuries, fires or property damage. When planning for the holiday, make safety a priority. Talk to your family and friends before using fireworks to keep everyone safe.

• You must be at least 18 years old to buy, store and use consumer fireworks.
• Only buy from licensed vendors.
• Ensure fireworks are stored securely and out of reach of children.
• Fully read and understand the instructions, cautions and warnings on each item.
• Set up outside in a clear, open space on your private property.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
• Aim fireworks away from others, homes, trees and flammable materials.
• Always watch over children and make sure watchers are at a safe distance.
• Safely dispose of used or unused fireworks. Completely submerge the fireworks in water and soak them overnight. Wrap the soaked fireworks in a plastic bag and throw them in the garbage.

Remember to clean up where you used fireworks. Nobody likes a mess.

Alternatives to fireworks

Consider using alternatives to fireworks, like sparklers, glow sticks, glow wands or LED lights to help reduce the harm from fireworks use.

Fireworks have several environmental impacts, including air pollution, noise disturbances, harm to wildlife, waste generation, and increased fire risks. They release particulate matter that causes short-term air pollution and can worsen respiratory issues. Loud explosions create noise pollution that disturbs residents, wildlife and pets, often causing stress or disorientation. Fireworks also leave behind debris that contributes to litter, and unsafe use can increase the risk of fires, threatening property and local ecosystems.

Noise levels and pets

Fireworks can be loud and noisy. The loud sounds can be stressful for pets and unsettling for some residents. To minimize the impact, pet owners can take proactive steps such as keeping animals indoors during peak fireworks hours, creating a quiet and comfortable space, and using calming techniques or music to help keep their pets calm.

Residents sensitive to noise, including those who may find loud and unpredictable sounds stressful, may benefit from earplugs, sound machines, or planning quiet time away from high-activity firework areas.

Report illegal fireworks use

If someone in your neighbourhood or community is misusing fireworks, please call 311. Please do not call 911 for fireworks complaints unless there is an emergency such as a fire, injury or death.

Residents can also file a complaint online through the City’s website and report fireworks misuse at any time, during day or night. Once residents have submitted the complaint, the City’s Enforcement staff will respond, if necessary.

Learn more

• Visit mississauga.ca/fireworks for more information about fireworks use in Mississauga.
• Visit mississauga.ca/fire for more information on fire safety

Tags

• By-laws and Policy
• Enforcement and Fines
• Fire and Emergency Services