There will be no more roman candles, cherry bombs, and skyrockets at backyard celebrations in Woodstock.
City council voted in favour Thursday night of banning the sale and use of personal fireworks within city limits.
The decision comes as the colourful displays continue to be a point of contention with residents who argue they are noisy, disruptive, harmful to animals, and damage the environment. Last year, the city's bylaw officers received 50 complaints about backyard fireworks. Just half way through this year, 31 complaints have already been filed.
Woodstock does have a bylaw currently in place that limits the discharge of personal fireworks to Victoria Day, Canada Day, and Diwali. However, it has been noted that enforcement is an ongoing challenge as it can be difficult for bylaw officers to identify persons responsible for violating the bylaw.
Staff have now been directed to prepare the necessary amendment to the fireworks bylaw to reflect the prohibition of consumer fireworks. As well, they will submit a proposed timeline for implementation. That will have to go back to council for final approval before the outright ban can take effect.
Public fireworks displays, including the one held in conjunction with the city's Canada Day celebration, will still be permitted.
Last November, Brampton amended its fireworks bylaw to ban the sale and use of backyard fireworks. The idea was also floated at a community and protective services committee in London last month. Councillors were presented two options - an outright ban or tightening existing rules and increasing fines for violators. A public participation meeting on the proposed changes to the bylaw has been set for August 15, with London's city council to make its final decision in November.
