DIDSBURY - Town council has given final reading to an updated fireworks bylaw, bringing it into line with updated legislation.
The move came by way of motion at the recent regularly scheduled council meeting, held in person and on YouTube.
“In accordance with the federal Explosives Act, the minister of Natural Resources Canada, the person granting a permit or licence to set off fireworks must be trained and receive certification. This authority lies with the Didsbury fire chief or their designate, who has received the training,” said Town of Didsbury chief administrative officer Ethan Gorner.
Council granted first reading to the updated bylaw on June 14 and referred it to the policy and governance committee, which reviewed the legislation on June 21 before returning it to council.
The updated bylaw states that no person shall be “permitted to possess fireworks, firecrackers, fire balls or squibs while within the Town of Didsbury limits without a permit granted by the fire chief or their designate.
“This restriction does not apply to any peace officer, enforcement officer or RCMP police officer in the discharge of their duties” and “a person who is in receipt of a special permit issued by the fire chief or their designate.
“Any person wanting to handle display fireworks must apply for a permit with the fire chief or their designate.”
Penalties outlined in the bylaw include $60 for unlawful possession for first offence, $115 for second offence, and $225 for third offence.
Fines for unlawful use are $115 for first offence, $225 for second offence, and $450 for third offence.
