Legal Age: You must be 18 or older to purchase or possess fireworks in a public place.
Buy Safely: Only purchase from licensed retailers. Ensure all products carry current safety regulation markings; unlicensed fireworks are often illegal and dangerous.
Be a Good Neighbour: Notify neighbours of your plans in advance—especially those with pets, young children, or the elderly.
Time it Right: Avoid setting off fireworks late at night to minimize noise disturbance.
Pet Safety: Keep all pets securely indoors during the display.
Preparation & Setup
Storage: Keep fireworks in a closed, sturdy box. Take them out one at a time and close the lid immediately.
Personal Safety: Never carry fireworks in your pockets.
Stay Sober: Do not consume alcohol if you are responsible for setting off fireworks.
Read Ahead: Carefully follow the specific instructions printed on each individual firework.
During the Display: Handling & Lighting
Lighting Technique: Use a taper to light fireworks at arm’s length. Light them one at a time at the end of the fuse.
Safe Distance: Once lit, stand well back immediately.
Dud Fireworks: Never go back to a firework once it has been lit, even if it hasn't gone off.
Sparkler Safety:
Wear gloves when handling or lighting sparklers.
Light sparklers one at a time.
Never give sparklers to children under the age of 5.
Post-Display & Disposal
No Throwing: Never throw fireworks or spent casings.
Fire Hazard: Do not dispose of spent fireworks on a bonfire.
It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase or use "adult" fireworks.
Night time Curfews
Standard law prohibits the use of fireworks between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. However, there are four exceptions where the curfew is extended:
Bonfire Night: Fireworks allowed until midnight.
New Year’s Eve: Fireworks allowed until 1:00 AM.
Diwali: Fireworks allowed until 1:00 AM.
Chinese New Year: Fireworks allowed until 1:00 AM.
When Can You Buy Fireworks?
While Licensed Year-Round Shops can sell fireworks 365 days a year, all other registered sellers are only permitted to sell fireworks (including sparklers) during these specific windows:
October 15 – November 10: For Bonfire Night.
December 26 – December 31: For New Year's Eve.
Diwali & Chinese New Year: During the 3 days leading up to the celebration.
Penalties & Fines
Illegal sale or use of fireworks carries severe consequences:
Criminal Charges: Fines up to Unlimited Amount and/or up to 6 months in prison.
On-the-Spot Fines: Fixed penalty notices of £90 may be issued by the police.
