The recent meteorological shift has precipitated a change in fireworks policy on the North Shore.
"Due to the recent rain, weather forecast and projected low fire danger rating in the coming weeks," fire chiefs from District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue and West Vancouver Fire and Rescue have decided that fireworks permits will be issued for this Halloween (Oct. 31).
The districts revealed their decision in a joint statement Monday evening, reversing course from a ban that was anticipated as of last week. Previously, the fire danger rating was high due to the unseasonably hot and dry weather through much of October.
Now, residents in the districts of North Vancouver and West Vancouver can buy a $5 permit that allows them to set off fireworks on private property between 5 and 10 p.m. on Oct. 31.
"Please remember to be cautious when discharging fireworks and stay safe this Halloween," the fire chiefs said.
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), which had previously halted firework sales, said it has resumed selling fireworks at two designated locations until Oct. 31. But as of Nov. 1, the purchase, possession or discharge of fireworks will be banned on Nation lands, spokesperson Connor Trembley said via email. More details can be found online.
The City of North Van has a permanent ban on the sale, purchase, possession or discharge of fireworks of any kind, although a private event in The Shipyards was licensed in September, drawing questions from nearby residents.
Fire chiefs are reminding residents that fireworks, open flames and smoking are all strictly prohibited in parks and forested areas at all times.
Two wildfires burned in West Vancouver forests in October: a smaller brush fire near Brother’s Creek Trail and the two-hectare Eagle Ridge fire.
