Since 1845 Victoria Day weekend has heralded beginning of warmer weather in Ontario. The observance began to mark the Queen’s birthday and continues today as an ode to the late monarch that is highlighted with work in the garden and maybe even some fireworks to celebrate the change of season.
In Brighton, Port Hope and Cobourg, municipal offices will be closed and transit services will be unavailable on Monday in Port Hope, but transit will be running in Cobourg from 6:15 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Municipal offices and services will resume normal operating hours starting Tuesday. Garbage and recycling collection will be pushed one day forward due to the holiday, with Monday’s collection now on Tuesday, and so forth.
If you plan on setting off fireworks, remember you’re permitted to do so three days before and on Victoria Day itself. Ensure you maintain a safe distance of 15 meters from any structure or property line, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid areas with dry grass or dead undergrowth to prevent fire spread, and refrain from using prohibited fireworks like firecrackers.
Moreover, urban areas prohibit open-air burning, including outdoor wood burning chimneys, fire pits, and barrels. Natural gas or propane outdoor appliances are allowed if listed for use in Canada and installed correctly. Rural property owners in Port Hope must obtain burn permits for controlled burning by contacting the Fire Administration Office.
When having outdoor fires, ensure supervision at all times, keep fires confined and under control, maintain safe distances from property lines and buildings, and have fire suppression equipment nearby. Fully extinguish fires before leaving the site.
(Written by Joseph Goden)
