Once a site is deemed to be appropriate, you
must obtain event approval from the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
Obtaining event approval is a matter of meeting certain requirements. Some of these
are general and constant; some will vary with the particular AHJ or display. The
basic requirements are listed below.
3.7
Basic Requirements for Event Approval
- A suitable site for the safe
firing of the fireworks you plan to use. The Supervisor in Charge will be
responsible for preparing the Site Plan and Event Descriptions.
- A completed Application
for Event Approval / Purchase Form.
- Written permission from the
owner, lessee, or agent of the land where the display will be help and any neighbouring
land on which debris might fall.
- Proof of liability
insurance: minimum C$1,000,000. or more if required by AHJ. In some
situations, the management of the venue or the company contracting for the fireworks
services may arrange insurance coverage. In such cases, make sure that you:
- Verify your coverage with the broker.
- Obtain written confirmation of your insurance.
- Know exactly what your policy is covering.
3.8
The Site Plan and Event Approval
3.8.1
Site Plan
- Separation distances to the
public and vulnerable features.
- Position of ramps and mortars.
- Fall-out zone.
- Direction of firing.
- Significant ground features, roads, public rights of way, buildings or
structures, overhead obstructions, parking areas, and spectator viewing areas.
- Location of emergency vehicles if applicable.
- North arrow.
3.8.2
Event Description
- Date, time schedule of
events, and possible rain date.
- Description of fireworks including type, size and quantity.
- Firing procedures - Manual or Electric.
- Emergency response procedures.
- Traffic control plans and attendance estimates if known.
Some sites are frequently used for public
fireworks displays, and the AHJ may have a site plan suitable for your display on
file. Be aware, however, that site conditions can change. If you use a site
plan submitted for a previous display, be sure to verify the information it contains, and
make any changes required to bring it up to date.
3.8.3
Requirements in Special Circumstances:
Additional Approvals or
Notifications
- Sign-offs by other AHJs,
where the site is under more than one jurisdiction.
- Police approval, if the display makes it necessary to close roads or divert
traffic.
- Police notification of expected noise levels.
- Notification of Transport Canada, if the display is near a commercial
airport, heliport or on a navigable waterway.
3.9
Purchasing Display Fireworks
Once the AHJ has approved your proposal and
application, and returned the approved Event Approval Form to you, you can forward it to a
licensed vendor. The vendor will then:
- Fill your order.
- Retain your Application
for Event Approval / Purchase Form (in accordance with Section 123 of the Explosives
Regulations).
Note: Remember to keep a copy
of your application for your records. These records will be useful in determining
your suitability if you apply to have your certification renewed. The Supervisor
in Charge should also give the Assistant copies of the event approval form,
for their use as proof of experience.
