Firework Permits and Safety
Every year improper use of fireworks is responsible for numerous injuries and property damage (Source: Fireworks | NFPA). Use of fireworks without permission may result in a penalty of up to $10,000, upon conviction, as per the St Albert Fire Services Bylaw
Fireworks Use
The following classes of fireworks and pyrotechnics require a permit to be discharged or sold:
- Consumer fireworks – refers to outdoor, low-hazard recreational fireworks such as showers, fountains, golden rain, Roman candles and volcanoes.
- Display fireworks – refers to outdoor, high-hazard recreational fireworks such as display shells, bombshells, large wheels, barrages, bombardos, waterfalls and mines.
- Pyrotechnic special effects – refers to fireworks that are created through the firing of pyrotechnic, propellant and explosive materials and devices and are used by the entertainment industry for indoor and outdoor performances. Examples are bullet effects, flash powders, smoke compositions, gerbs, lances and saxons.
The following items do not require a permit:
- Model rockets – refers to small recreational propellant rocket devices.
- Practical use articles - refers to low-hazard practical fireworks such as highway flares, railway fuses and other small distress signals; also, high-hazard items such as large distress signals, railway track signals, distress and line-throwing rockets, and wildlife control devices when used for their intended purpose and as per manufacturers requirements.
- Novelty items - refers to caps for toy guns, sparklers.
Applying for a Fireworks Permit
- Permits are only issued to users certified under the Explosives Act (R.S.C., 1985, E-17) as fireworks operators (Display Fireworks Supervisor and/or Special Effect Pyrotechnics) and upon approval of a successful application.
- Permit applications must include all required information as per the NRC Display Fireworks Manual 2010
- Permits for fireworks sales require an inspection of the facility which is done by request.
- For inspection requests or for permit applications, email fireprevention@stalbert.ca
Related Pages
Last edited: July 3, 2025