Canada Day falls on Tuesday, and while Airdrie will mark the holiday with a 20-minute professional fireworks display at Chinook Winds Regional Park, private fireworks remain illegal within city limits.
Possession, sale or use of consumer fireworks — classified as low-hazard recreational fireworks (F.1) — is prohibited under Emergency Services Bylaw B-18/2018, posted on the City of Airdrie website.
Only federally certified professionals may apply to discharge high-hazard display fireworks (F.2), and only with a permit from the Airdrie Fire Department. Permits cost $35, are non-transferable, and must meet inspection and safety planning requirements.
Violations can result in fines of up to $2,500.
City organized fireworks show in Airdrie
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Canada Day Fireworks
10:45 – 11:05 p.m., Tuesday, July 1
Chinook Winds Regional Park
The 20-minute show is organized by the City of Airdrie. It is the only approved fireworks display within municipal limits.
Rocky View County permits fireworks with conditions
In Rocky View County, both consumer and professional fireworks are allowed — but only with a valid permit, and only when no fire ban or advisory is in effect, the County states on its website.
Permits are free and must be obtained at least:
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One week before using consumer/recreational fireworks
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Two weeks ahead of major holidays
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Three weeks before any professional display or pyrotechnic event
Applicants must submit a completed form, a site diagram, and written permission from adjacent property owners. Fireworks cannot be discharged within 10 metres of any building, tent, canvas shelter, motor vehicle or property line, and cannot cross property lines without consent, according to County guidelines.
Permit instructions and documentation requirements are listed on the Rocky View County website.
Calgary bans all fireworks without permit
In Calgary, all fireworks are prohibited unless operated by a certified technician with a permit from the Calgary Fire Department, as outlined on the City of Calgary website.
This includes consumer fireworks purchased or ordered from outside the city. Unauthorized use violates the National Fire Code (Alberta Edition), adopted under the provincial Safety Codes Act, and municipal bylaws.
Permits are required to install or ignite any fireworks, pyrotechnics or special effects. If fireworks exceed three inches in diameter, a Fire Safety Codes Officer must be present at the event.
Applications must include:
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A completed permit form
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Written permission from affected property owners
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A valid certificate from Natural Resources Canada’s Explosives Regulatory Division
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Proof of $5 million liability insurance, naming The City of Calgary as additional insured
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A detailed site plan, product list and fire safety plan
Fees are $392 per day or $1,705 for five or more display dates. Processing time is seven to 10 days, and applications must be submitted through 311.
Penalties for a first offence include fines up to $100,000. Offenders may also face up to six months in jail. Repeat violations may lead to higher fines and up to 12 months’ imprisonment.
Canada Day events in Airdrie — full listing
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8 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast, City Hall (Kin Club of Airdrie; limited to the first 1,500 people)
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10 a.m. to noon – Canada Day Parade, downtown (Airdrie Parades; up to 100 floats)
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All day – Celebrate Downtown, local business specials and QR-coded maps
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11 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Airdrie CultureFest, Nose Creek Park (multicultural exhibits, music and food)
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June 27 to July 1 – Airdrie Pro Rodeo, Airdrie Rodeo Grounds
Parking is limited at all event sites. Residents are encouraged to walk, cycle, take transit or use shared e-scooters (for riders aged 16 and older; helmets are recommended).
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