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Fireworks holidays, sales ban and reporting in Waterloo, Ontario
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Waterloo allows family fireworks only during four named holiday windows on private property. Local buying and selling are banned from January 2026, while online ordering remains allowed under the city page.
Key information
Waterloo allows family fireworks only during four named holiday windows on private property. Local buying and selling are banned from January 2026, while online ordering remains allowed under the city page.
On this page
Approved 2026 dates and hours
| Holiday | Date | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Lunar New Year | February 17 | 8-10 p.m. |
| Victoria Day | May 18 | 9-11 p.m. |
| Canada Day | July 1 | 9-11 p.m. |
| Diwali/Deepavali | November 8 and 9 | 8-10 p.m. |
Sources: Firework dates and local rules
Your next steps
- Prepare
Call 519-747-8785 and provide a specific address if possible.
- Contact or apply
Do not assume an officer can arrive before a short display ends.
- Complete the next step
The listed fine is $1,000 for a first offence and $2,000 for a second.
Sources: Firework dates and local rules
Property, age and permitted categories
The user must be at least 18 and use private property they own or have permission to use. Only family fireworks, such as roman candles, fountains, pinwheels and volcanoes, are listed. The city page explicitly says not to use Christmas crackers or paper caps.
Notify neighbours and avoid trees, woodlots, nesting areas and water systems. Check wind and dryness and clear debris afterward. The holiday window does not override property or noise conditions.
For another date, apply for a noise exemption and obtain city approval through municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca. Large displays require a certified operator.
Sources: Firework dates and local rules
Report outside the allowed window
- Call 519-747-8785 and provide a specific address if possible. Reports help identify repeated problem locations.
- Do not assume an officer can arrive before a short display ends. The city says response may not stop the fireworks in time.
- The listed fine is $1,000 for a first offence and $2,000 for a second. Municipal Enforcement can answer questions by phone, email or at City Hall weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sources: Firework dates and local rules
Questions and answers
Can I set off fireworks on any holiday weekend night?
No. Use only the listed holiday dates and hours.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
Is New Year’s Eve in the approved table?
No. The published table lists Lunar New Year, Victoria Day, Canada Day and Diwali/Deepavali.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
Can fireworks be used in a city park?
The city rule permits private property only, with owner permission.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
Can shops in Waterloo sell fireworks in 2026?
The city says local buying and selling have been prohibited since January 2026.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
Can I still order online?
The city page says online ordering remains allowed.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
How do I seek approval for another date?
Apply for a noise exemption and contact municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca for city approval.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
What number reports illegal timing?
519-747-8785, with a specific address if possible.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
What is the listed first-offence fine?
$1,000; the second-offence amount is $2,000.
Source: Firework dates and local rules
Sources: Firework dates and local rules