​BRAMPTON, ON (November 5, 2020) – This year, Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas celebrations will look a little different as the community works together to stop the spread of COVID-19. In line with Peel Public Health recommendations, the City asks that residents celebrate with those in their immediate household only.

New, creative ways residents are asked to consider celebrating include calling or video chatting with friends, family and neighbours, and watching a virtual fireworks display.

While it is not recommended, for those who decide to celebrate with individuals outside of their immediate household, the City reminds residents to physically distance and adhere to all COVID-19 safety precautions, including wearing a mask in all indoor public spaces. Social gatherings must be kept to a maximum of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

Residents who decide to attend celebrations in-person at their Gurdwara or Mandir should also physically distance and adhere to all COVID-19 safety precautions, including wearing a mask in all indoor public spaces.

Under the Brampton COVID-19 Emergency Measures By-law, individuals not adhering to physical distancing regulation can be fined a minimum of $500 and maximum of up to $100,000 for each offence.

Municipal regulations under the by-law state:

• Every person shall maintain at least a 2.0 metre distance from every other person when on public property, except persons who reside together in the same premises
• No business shall permit any person to be seated or to be standing inside or outside the business at a distance of less than 2.0 metres from every other person, except persons who reside together in the same premises or the employees of the business.

Residents and businesses can call 311 to report non-compliance.

Support local
The City asks residents to consider making a donation to local food banks or community groups during these celebrations, and to support local small businesses and restaurants during this time. 

Fireworks safety
Diwali is one of four holidays a year when short-range fireworks are allowed on private property, without the need for a permit, in Brampton. Under the by-law, fireworks are also permitted on Victoria Day, Diwali and New Year’s Eve. This year, Short range fireworks are allowed on private property in Brampton on Saturday, November 14 only.
 
Short-range fireworks are those that tend to travel less than three metres (10 feet) when set off (e.g. fountains, wheels, ground spinners, sparklers). All other rocket-type fireworks are banned in Brampton. The City reminds residents that fireworks are not permitted on the street, sidewalks, within City parks or on municipal or school properties.

When using short-range fireworks on private property, residents must follow these safety precautions:

• Have a container of water or a hose line filled with water available to extinguish fireworks.
• Never light a firework or hold a lit firework in your hand, other than a sparkler.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• After using sparklers, place them in a container of water to fully cool before disposal.
• Allow all fireworks to fully cool before disposal.

For more information on firework safety and bylaws, visit www.brampton.ca/fireworks  

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MEDIA CONTACT
Megan Ball
Media Coordinator, City of Brampton
905.874.2143 | megan.ball@brampton.ca