The Township of Russell has a new Fireworks By-Law that will allow residents to use fireworks during specific dates throughout the year.

Previously, fireworks were always prohibited in the Township of Russell under the Noise By-Law, unless granted special exemption from Council. The Fireworks By-Law took effect as of September 1, 2021.

The new Fireworks By-Law contains the following provisions:

 Consumer fireworks (family fireworks) are now allowed on the following dates (between sunset and 11p.m. only, no permit required):
o Two days before, the day of, and two days after Canada Day;
o The day before, the day of, and the day after Victoria Day;
o The day before, the day of, and the day after New Year’s Eve;
o The day before, the day of, and the day after St Jean Baptiste.

 Display Fireworks are allowed and require an application and permit process, a qualified supervisor, and insurance;

 Pyrotechnic Special Effects Fireworks are allowed and require an application and permit process, a qualified supervisor, and insurance.

 No fireworks are to be discharged during a Fire Ban.

 Fireworks are not allowed in parks.

The decision to approve the new Fireworks By-Law was made at the August 9 Township of Russell Council meeting.

‘’The safety of residents is a Council priority,” said Mayor Pierre Leroux. “This new By-Law will help our community celebrate special occasions with fireworks both safely and responsibly.”

Residents are asked to read the Fireworks By-Law before setting off any fireworks, as certain conditions apply. (eg. fire crackers and flying lanterns are prohibited).

The complete Fireworks By-Law can be requested by contacting [email protected], and will soon be available on the municipal website at Russell.ca/FireworksByLaw.

In addition to establishing when fireworks are permitted, the Fireworks By-Law also regulates the sale of firework items in the Township of Russell.

“Implementing a Fireworks By-Law allows us to set clear regulations and expectations for safe firework use in the Township,” said Millie Bourdeau, Director of Public Safety and Law Enforcement. “There will also be a community-wide understanding of when firework celebrations may be expected, helping us reduce reports of loud noise and startled pets that have run away.”

For more information about the Fireworks By-Law, contact the Public Safety and Law Enforcement Department at [email protected].