$100K of fireworks seized in Surrey through online investigation
A City of Surrey Bylaws investigation has led to the seizure of $100K of fireworks from a single retail location ahead of Halloween.
Surrey, BC – A City of Surrey Bylaws investigation has led to the seizure of $100K of fireworks from a single retail location ahead of Halloween. Bylaw Officers conducted online and social media searches for sellers of fireworks in Surrey and identified a retail location allegedly selling fireworks. Officers attended the business and observed several shelves full of fireworks. RCMP seized the fireworks and municipal tickets were issued to the owner as well as two employees.
“I would like to commend our dedicated Bylaw Officers for innovatively targeting illegal fireworks vendors in the City of Surrey,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “It took four pick-up trucks and a minivan to transport the illegal items found at this single location. A seizure of this size will surely reduce injuries related to the use of fireworks and firecrackers, as well as alleviate the nuisance noise complaints. To help everyone have a safe and happy Halloween, Surrey Bylaws will be out tomorrow night to enforce Surrey’s Fireworks Bylaws.”
In the City of Surrey, fireworks are not allowed to be sold or discharged without a valid Fire Department permit and Federal Fireworks Operator Certification. Violating the City’s Fireworks Bylaws can result in a penalty of up to $5,000 to a suspension or loss of a business license for businesses found selling illegal fireworks. Click here to learn more.
Surrey Bylaw Enforcement Officers and police will be enforcing the City’s Fireworks Bylaws through Halloween to Diwali. Call 604-591-4370 to report fireworks and firecracker complaints in Surrey.
9-1-1 should not be used to report fireworks. 9-1-1 is for police, fire and medical emergencies when immediate action is required: someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy, or a crime is in progress.