Lacombe County is reminding residents a fireworks permit is required for those who wish to sell, purchase or set off fireworks within the province of Alberta.
A media release from Lacombe County stated the use of fireworks is regulated by the Alberta Fire Code - there are no exceptions to the rules entailed within the provincial code.
“We just want to remind people just to have fun celebrating Canada Day, but to make sure they are taking the proper steps and getting their permits in place,” said Nicole Plewis, the communications coordinator with Lacombe County. “At the end of the day, they are the ones responsible if anything goes wrong their fireworks.”
“If you plan on shooting off fireworks, regardless of the time of year, a fireworks permit is required within Lacombe County,” said Lacombe County Fire Chief Todd Gustafson.
A number of municipalities within Lacombe County have instated outright firework bans - it’s important residents check with their municipality before they hold any celebrations that include fireworks.
The release emphasized the importance of responsible use of fireworks in County, indicating that fireworks permits are free of charge. An application for a permit is available on the Lacombe County website at www.lacombecounty.com or at the front desk of the County administration office. Applications can take up to one week to process, so the County recommends not waiting until the last minute to obtain a permit.
“If people are going to be setting off fireworks, they are responsible for them. It’s important to go through the right process to make sure they’re allowed to have them.”