Halloween is just over a week away, and you can bet money on the fact that you’re going to hear fireworks and firecrackers popping off, but where in Metro Vancouver are they actually legal?
Depending on the Metro Vancouver city we’re looking at, the rules around fireworks and firecrackers change.
Some cities also loosen up their restrictions around Halloween time.
So, here’s how the rules fare across major Metro Vancouver cities.
City of Vancouver
Giant spiders at Yaletown’s Helmcken Plaza, as seen on Oct. 1, 2026. (Kenneth Chan)
In Vancouver, fireworks are banned. The bylaw that includes the fireworks ban was introduced back in 2021.
“Anyone caught illegally selling or setting off fireworks in Vancouver faces a $1,000 fine,” the City states.
Last year, the City stated on its website that fire inspectors and firefighters would be patrolling to enforce the bylaw.
City of North Vancouver
Shawn.ccf/Shutterstock
The City of North Vancouver has a strict ban on fireworks.
The prohibition includes the sale, purchase, possession and discharge of fireworks. The only exception is if it’s an approved public display, which requires a certified fireworks supervisor and a permit issued by the fire chief.
In the District of North Vancouver, fireworks are “carefully regulated.”
In the District, fireworks can only be discharged on Oct. 31 between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.
City of Burnaby
Burnaby is a little more relaxed when it comes to fireworks rules, and it isn’t a strict prohibition.
Anyone using fireworks must be at least 18 years of age.
On Oct. 31, Burnaby says that low-hazard fireworks are allowed on private property, with the consent of the property owner. Setting them off on public property requires a permit.
Burnaby adds that the sale of fireworks in the city is illegal.
City of Richmond
Richmond isn’t playing any games when it comes to fireworks, telling residents it has a “zero-tolerance approach” to fireworks.
It is illegal to purchase, sell, possess, and detonate fireworks in Richmond.
Like in Vancouver, violators face up to a $1,000 fine.
“City personnel will be actively patrolling the community to watch for illegal fireworks use and other safety issues to ensure the public is safe during upcoming festival times,” the City says on its website.
You can also make a report if you see someone violating the rules by calling 604-278-1212.
City of Surrey
Doug McCallum
Surrey actually allows fireworks or pyrotechnic displays, but only with a permit issued by Surrey Fire.
Those permits are only issued for larger-scale public events, not for blowing off fireworks in your neighbourhood, which is strictly banned in Surrey.
According to the City, violators could face fines up to $50,000.
Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam
Coquitlam has stricter rules for fireworks than Port Coquitlam.
In Coquitlam, buying and selling fireworks is NOT allowed. For folks who want to set off fireworks, a permit is required.
Once a permit is obtained, only folks 19 years of age and older are allowed to set the fireworks off. You must also acquire that permit 72 hours prior to the event.
The rules are slightly softer in Port Coquitlam.
Like Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam residents also require a permit. Permits are valid until Oct. 31 at 11 p.m.
Handlers in Port Coquitlam have to be at least 18, and Roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and screechers are prohibited.
City of New West
Downtown New West BIA
New Westminster offers a small window in which fireworks are allowed.
Fireworks can be possessed between Oct. 28 and Oct. 31.
Fireworks can only be set off by an adult, and with the consent of the property owner, on Oct. 31 from late afternoon to evening.
City of Delta
Fireworks are prohibited in Delta year-round.
“Fireworks can cause injuries, fires, and property damage. Sudden, loud explosions can also distress neighbours, pets, livestock and wildlife,” Delta says on its website.
Folks flouting the rules could face up to a $500 fine.
Delta offers additional information if you want to report a rule-breaker.
Township of Langley
Like some cities, the Township of Langley has permit requirements when it comes to possessing and setting off fireworks.
Permits to discharge fireworks cost $115, and you can also obtain a permit to sell fireworks in Langley, which costs $1,500.
Regardless of where you live, stay safe this Halloween!