illegal fireworks set off in Banff during extreme wildfire hazard spark warning

The use of fireworks in Banff National Park, including within the Banff townsite, is not permitted.

BANFF – Illegal fireworks were set off in Banff in the early hours of Monday morning (July 13) when the fire danger was rated extreme. The fireworks and flares were set off in the Antelope Lane and Coyote Lane area of town about 4 a.m.. “Parks Canada and Town of Banff Bylaw were notified, but the individuals left quickly and no descriptions or vehicle information were available for follow-up,” stated an email from Parks Canada. The use of fireworks in Banff National Park, including within the Banff townsite, is not permitted under the Canada National Parks Act general regulations.

“Fireworks create a very high risk of igniting fire, which is the main hazard in Banff National Park,” said Jason Darrah, director of communications for the Town of Banff. “Fireworks have caused devastating forest fires in other jurisdictions.” Violation of this restriction in Banff National Park may carry significant fines under the national park federal regulations, regardless of whether a fire is created, potentially as much as $25,000.

Criminal negligence could also be considered if a fire is caused. The Town of Banff’s community standards bylaw addresses noise that disturbs others, which includes fireworks. A first offence runs a fine of $250 while a second offence within a year of the first offence carries a $500 fine.

In addition, the Town of Banff no longer hosts fireworks or pyrotechnics displays due to forest fire danger and impacts on the park’s wildlife. As of Wednesday (July 15), the fire danger in Banff National remains extreme following several days of hot temperatures. There are currently no active wildfires in Banff National Park, but last year there were three wildfires in the park that were extinguished.

They included a wildfire in the Panther River valley that started Sept. 2 and a small fire at Moose Meadows off the Bow Valley Parkway on Sept. 6. A small grass fire along the Legacy Trail on April 18 was believed to have been sparked by someone carelessly tossing a cigarette. In 2024, there were also three wildfires – at Carrot Creek, Redearth/Pharaoh creeks and Elk Pass.