This year marks the third Halloween in which fireworks purchases require authorization. A permit is made available through an online test, but the fireworks can only be acquired from a clerk after this permit is presented along with two pieces of identification.

This decision is an attempt to stem the damages that have typically resulted from fireworks. These don’t just extend to properties, which the Vancouver fire department reported as having cost $1.3 million in 2007 and $50,000 in
2009. This also extends to bodily harm, such as damaged ear drums and severed fingers.

Fireworks sales are legal between October 25 and 31, but may only be fired off on private property, and on Halloween itself.