Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get firecrackers?
   
   No. Firecrackers, as well as M80s, Silver Salutes, and Cherrybombs are illegal in Canada. If firecrackers are needed for religious ceremonies they can be purchased but they must be used by a licensed fireworks supervisor.
   
   
   
2. Who can buy fireworks?
   
   Consumer fireworks, otherwise known as family fireworks, can be purchased by adults (18 years or older). However, there are some regulations that you should know prior to purchasing fireworks. It is illegal to purchase, possess or function fireworks in the city of Calgary without question. If you plan on a show outside the city you are required to get a permit from the municipal district, RCMP, or the local Fire Department.
   
   
   
3. How old do I have to be to purchase fireworks?
   
   The legal age throughout all of Canada is 18.
   
   
   
4. What are family fireworks?
   
   Family fireworks are manufactured fireworks for public display that do not require purchasers or firers to be licensed fireworks supervisors.
   
   
   
5. Do I need a permit to set off family fireworks?
   
   Yes, check with your local authority for all the rules associated with setting off fireworks in your area. Be sure to also check local fire bans as you do not want to cause any major fires or problems.
   
   
   
6. Can I buy display fireworks?
   
   Yes, but you must be licensed or must have licensed supervisors to handle the fireworks. You must also look into specific licensing and permits that you will need to obtain before you put on any sort of professional display show. As stated above, you must also be 18 years of age or above.
   
   
   
7. Where can I buy fireworks?
   
   As mentioned above, you cannot purchase fireworks in the city of Calgary. For the closest location outside the city please visit the Products section on our website.
   
   
   
8. How can our community have a fireworks show?
   
   Contact The Fireworks Factory directly and, depending on the budget and location, we can arrange to put on a show for you. Alternately, we can sell you family fireworks, provided your event is outside the city limits and you have gone through the proper channels to get the required permits.
   
   
   
9. Do you export to the United States?
   
   Unfortunately no, due to certain regulations that came into effect after 9/11 we have found that we must strictly work in Canada. If you are in the United States and have no idea who to contact please contact us privately and we will see what we can do to help you out.
   
   
   
10. What is a local authority?
    
    A local authority is usually your local fire department. They are in charge of setting the rules you must abide by if you wish to be using fireworks. If you do not have a fire department please feel free to contact your local RCMP for information on who may be your local authority.
    
    
    
11. Who is the governing body for fireworks?
    
    Explosive Regulatory Division is the governing body that enforces the laws outlined by the Minister of Natural Resources Canada. The inspectors of the ERD are authorized by the Minister to publish training manuals, issue or cancel certificates and enforce the standards presented in the said training manual.
    
    
    
12. What is an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)?
    
    An Authority Having Jurisdiction is the agency in any area for granting approvals for fireworks displays. The most common AHJ is the Fire Department, but other agencies such as Police explosives unit, Coast Guard, or Transport Canada Airport can be an AHJ. It is the responsibility of the fireworks supervisor to be aware of the AHJ for the area in which the display is to take place.