Pyrotechnic Displays, Bonfires & Sky Lanterns on Council Administered Land Policy

Policies

1.0  Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline requirements for the use of outdoor pyrotechnic displays, bonfires and sky lanterns on Council administered land.

2.0  Background

People like to enjoy various forms of fire to celebrate events and festivals. This may be in the form of bonfires, sky lanterns, fireworks or increasingly pyrotechnic displays. Often this takes place on Council administered land.

3.0  Key Definitions

  • Pyrotechnics - the use of fireworks for public displays.
  • Bonfires - fires built in the open air for entertainment or celebration.
  • Sky lanterns - lanterns with an open flame such as a candle or tea light that can float into the air.
  • Approved Handler - persons certified as approved handlers under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 or other relevant legislation at the time of the proposed public display.

4.0  Policy

Timaru District Council is committed to ensuring that risks associated with pyrotechnics and flames are managed and minimised while allowing for celebrations and events.

  1. Bonfires will not normally be allowed on Council administered land.  On rare special occasions, if a suitable site is available, it may be possible to gain approval when necessary controls are in place.
  2. Sky lanterns will only be permitted if they are secured or tethered, in an approved area of low fire risk.
  3. Where outdoor pyrotechnics are concerned, they may only be used for public displays and in accordance with the Code of Practice for Outdoor Pyrotechnic Displays, any legislation and regulations and under the control of an approved handler.
  4. In a Restricted Fire Season, a fire permit is needed.
  5. All activities of this nature require approval.  Applications will only be considered for the following large parks:  Caledonian Ground, Redruth Park, Patiti Point, Timaru Botanic Gardens, Anzac Square, Centennial Park, West End Park, Highfield Golf Course, Caroline Bay, Ashbury Park, Marchwiel Park, Sir Basil Arthur Park, Aorangi Park, Temuka Domain, Geraldine Domain, Pleasant Point Domain or Rural Domains.  Other applications for Council owned or administered land may be considered on a case by case basis.
  6. Where any damage occurs, reparation will be sought.
  7. A bond and public liability insurance may be required for events.
  8. Police and the Fire Service shall be notified in advance of events.

Adopted Community Development Committee 19 July 2016

Last updated: 24 Feb 2021