Surrey bylaw officers to patrol for fireworks on Halloween, Diwali

The City of Surrey says it’s taking proactive safety measures ahead of Thursday when Halloween is set to coincide with Diwali celebrations.

Mayor Brenda Lock says bylaw officers will be focused on investigating the illegal use of fireworks across the city.

Earlier this month, Surrey city council raised fines for the sale and use of fireworks.

On Oct. 8, the minimum penalty for selling or lighting fireworks without a permit increased from $100 to $400; while the maximum penalty rose from $5,000 to as much as $50,000.

Locke said the new penalties are in response to a “significant surge in complaints related to fireworks.”

“The illegal use of fireworks poses severe risks, including potential injuries, property damage, and distress to animals. Council has taken this step to significantly increase fines in order to deter the illegal use of fireworks and to ensure the safety of our residents,” said Locke.

The city says the new fines will help bylaw officers and police to manage firework risk.

“Officers will respond to reports, gather evidence, issue tickets, and involve the RCMP as needed. Last year, bylaw officers visited over 500 locations and issued around 150 tickets,” the city said in an update Wednesday.

In Surrey, the discharge of fireworks requires federal certification and permits from the Surrey Fire Service. You can apply for a permit on the city’s website.

—With files from Raynaldo Suarez