The debate around backyard fireworks in the city came to a close as the council approved a new fireworks bylaw. Last August, the council had voted to expand the number of days when backyard fireworks would be permitted to include Diwali and Lunar New Year. However, the council’s community and protective services committee voted not to add these holidays to the new bylaw, causing controversy. Ward 8 Coun. Steve Lehman expressed concern about going against the council’s decision, while others argued that they were voting based on their beliefs and not breaching the code of conduct.
Ward 6 Coun. Sam Trosow and Ward 13 Coun. David Ferreira, who voted against the bylaw at committee, defended their decision, stating that they were voting in accordance with their beliefs. Both councillors opposed the use of fireworks due to safety concerns, climate impacts, and enforcement difficulties with the new bylaw. They expressed doubts about the effectiveness of adding more holidays to the bylaw without addressing enforcement issues. Despite opposition, the council voted 13-3 to adopt the new bylaw, with Trosow, Ferreira, and Ward 9 Coun. Anna Hopkins opposing it. The bylaw includes a licensing requirement for vendors, a reduction in the number of days fireworks can be sold, and new penalties for non-compliance.
Members of the east Asian and Hindu community wrote to the council, highlighting the cultural and religious significance of Diwali and Lunar New Year and asking for the vote to be appealed. Discussions during the council meeting raised concerns about the language used by councillors when discussing the bylaw, with Ward 7 Coun. Corrine Rahman emphasizing the importance of adhering to an anti-racism and anti-oppression framework. The council acknowledged the need for more inclusive language and understanding in their discussions. The new bylaw will require staff to determine the days when backyard fireworks will be allowed for both holidays and post them on the city website.
The decision to adopt the new fireworks bylaw came after a contentious debate and disagreement within the council. While some councillors supported the addition of Diwali and Lunar New Year to the list of permitted fireworks days, others opposed it due to concerns about safety, enforcement, and cultural sensitivity. The council ultimately voted to approve the bylaw, including provisions for licensing vendors, reducing the number of days fireworks can be sold, and implementing penalties for non-compliance. Moving forward, staff will determine the specific days when backyard fireworks will be allowed for the holidays and make this information available on the city website.
The discussion around backyard fireworks highlighted the complexities of balancing cultural traditions, public safety, and environmental concerns within the community. Councillors faced challenges in navigating differing opinions and concerns while upholding the council’s decisions. Moving forward, it will be important for the council to continue engaging with diverse community perspectives and addressing issues of enforcement and cultural sensitivity in future bylaws and decisions related to fireworks. The adoption of the new bylaw represents a step towards managing fireworks use in the city while recognizing the importance of cultural celebrations and ensuring public safety.
