Paradise adds gun powder to fireworks by-law
By Mark Squibb
Following a number of complaints, the Town of Paradise has amended its noise and nuisance by-law to more rigidly police the use of fireworks.
“Complaints are often received by the Town about the disruption caused by the noise and impact of fireworks on people and pets,” said councillor Sheldon Antle. “In previous years there have been incidents reported to the Town of Paradise where damages have occurred to personal properties from fireworks discharged privately. This year a complaint was received regarding the use of personal fireworks on New Year’s Eve in an urban neighbourhood, and fireworks were actually discharged from a public park.”
Previously, the by-law simply stated that fireworks could only be discharged on New Year’s Eve or Canada Day, unless permission was otherwise granted. Revellers could be fined upwards of $1,000 for violating the regulation.
The newly revised policy states fireworks can only be discharged on New Year’s Eve, Canada Day, or another day designated by council, between the hours of 7 p.m., and 12:30 a.m.; that fireworks may be banned during high risk fire periods; that no person shall discharge personal fireworks in, into, or on, any building, structure, doorway, vehicle, highway, street, road, or other place, or on any land that they do not own, unless the owner has given written permission; that no fireworks may be discharged within 30 metres of a structure, brush, or flammable material; that no one under 18 can discharge fireworks and that a bucket of water and fire extinguisher must be at hand; and that folks will be held liable for any damage or injury caused by fireworks.
Antle said the neighbouring communities of Mount Pearl, CBS, and St. John’s all recognize the 30-metre distance, as well as some communities in Ontario, and that the amendments strengthen the by-law.
“Residents have told us loud and clear on many occasions that the willy-nilly setting off of fireworks on different days, evenings, all hours of the day and night on New Year’s Eve, and what not, is a problem,” said councillor Glen Carew. “So, having a prescribed time and having some more stringent by-laws that govern it is actually very important.”
Carew said the 30-metre restriction, given the average building lot size, will make it difficult for residents to find a place to set of fireworks without running afoul of the rules.
Likewise, councillor Tommy Maher approved of the policy, though he doubted the Town will be able to enforce it.
“I don’t really know how we can police this, but at least this is our first step towards doing something to try and resolve this issue,” said Maher.
Councillor Erin Furlough noted that having a time frame in place gives people who are sensitive to fireworks, or may have pets that are sensitive to fireworks, time to prepare. Deputy Mayor Kimberley Street said she hoped the amendments will result in less property damage.
The by-law revision was approved unanimously.