Illegal Fireworks in Banff Spark Warning Amid Extreme Wildfire Danger

Parks Canada and the Town of Banff are reiterating the risks and penalties associated with illegal fireworks after they were reported in town during a period of extreme wildfire danger.

Parks Canada said it received a report of fireworks early on the morning of July 12 in the Antelope Lane and Coyote Lane area of Banff (map here). The individuals left quickly, and no descriptions or vehicle information were available for follow-up, the agency said.

The Town of Banff said neither Banff RCMP nor the Banff Fire Department received complaints from the public, though Banff National Park wardens may have been notified.

Parks Canada did not identify whether those involved were Banff residents or visitors.

The incident followed a stretch of hot, dry weather that heightened wildfire concerns in Banff National Park.

Jason Darrah, director of communications for the Town of Banff, warned of the wildfire risk posed by fireworks.

“Fireworks create a very high risk of igniting fire, which is the main hazard in Banff National Park,” Darrah said in a written statement.

Fireworks are prohibited throughout Banff National Park, including within the Banff townsite. Under federal park regulations, fireworks are considered explosives and cannot be used unless the field unit superintendent has granted permission through a Restricted Activity Permit.

Violating the prohibition can result in a fine of up to $25,000 at the discretion of a judge, Parks Canada said. Penalties can apply regardless of whether a wildfire is started.

In addition to the wildfire risk, Darrah warned that fireworks can cause serious injuries.

“Fireworks are also extremely dangerous. In all jurisdictions where individuals are allowed to use fireworks, significant injuries regularly occur, putting unnecessary pressure on healthcare systems, and devastating individual lives and abilities,” he said.

Section 32 of the National Parks General Regulations also prohibits excessive noise, unreasonable disturbances to others and actions that unreasonably interfere with wildlife or the natural beauty of the park.

The Town of Banff’s Community Standards Bylaw similarly prohibits loud, unnecessary or unusual noise that disturbs, endangers or interferes with the comfort and safety of others. A person who creates noise that disturbs others can face a $250 fine for a first offence and $500 for a second offence within 365 days of the first.

The Town of Banff no longer hosts fireworks or pyrotechnic displays for special events because of wildfire concerns and impacts on wildlife.