REQUEST FOR DECISION
DATE: August 31, 2021 Report No. FIRE-21-006
TO: Laurie Hurst, Chief Administrative Officer
FROM: Chris Jancowski, Fire Chief
SUBJECT:
Title
Fireworks Bylaw, 2021, No.3038End
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council give first, second and third readings to Fireworks Bylaw, 2021, No.3038.
Body
RELEVANT POLICY:
Fireworks Bylaw, 2007, No.2663,
Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2014, No.2839, as amended
STRATEGIC RELEVANCE:
Excellence in public service; engage, respect and respond to the needs of our community.
BACKGROUND:
The Township of Esquimalt “Fireworks Bylaw, 2007, No.2663” and the Notice of Motion dated November 16, 2020 directed staff to further explore restriction of the sale and use of fireworks.
On April 19, 2021, Staff reported back to Council on options and potential further restriction to reduce the following concerns:
1. Potential fire damage to private and public property (including landscaping)
2. Excessive noise pollution in densely populated areas of the Township
3. Air pollution
4. Impacts to people suffering from trauma or other sensitivities
5. Personal physical injury to people using, and/or people in the vicinity of fireworks being discharged
After discussion, staff was directed to prepare a bylaw to prohibit the sale, possession or use of fireworks by the public within the Township of Esquimalt. Included within this bylaw amendment would be a mechanism for a community group to request an exemption (subject to safety requirement) from Council as a community special event.
ISSUES:
1. Rationale for Selected Option
The attached bylaw will prohibit the public use of Fireworks within the Township. This bylaw will also provide the tools for the fire department and peace officers to recover costs and enforce non-compliance.
2. Organizational Implications
Staff has incorporated this project into their work plans for the year, utilizing existing staff resources.
3. Financial Implications
There are no significant financial implications.
4. Sustainability & Environmental Implications
This bylaw would reduce the discharge and burning materials into the environment and would further reduce noise pollution.
5. Communication & Engagement
This bylaw, once adopted, will be posted on the Township’s website and other social media platforms. Increased proactive communication will also occur leading up to Halloween.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. That Council give first, second and third readings to Fireworks Bylaw, 2021, No.3038.
2. That Council refers Bylaw No. 3038 back to staff to further revise.