FAQs
When can fireworks be set off?
In England, fireworks must not normally be set off between 11pm and 7am.
The exceptions are Bonfire Night, when the cut-off is midnight, and New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut-off is 1am.
Fireworks should always be used lawfully, safely and considerately. Think about how the noise may affect your neighbours, young children, older people, pets and others who may find fireworks distressing. Consider choosing quieter or low-noise fireworks to reduce the impact on others.
More information is available in the government guidance on fireworks and the law
Can I set off fireworks in a park?
No. It is against the law to set off or throw fireworks, including sparklers, in a street or other public place. This includes public parks and open spaces.
Fireworks should only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission and where there is enough space to follow the safety distances stated on the packaging.
Where can I find information about organised firework displays?
Attending an organised display is safer than holding a display at home.
Details of planned local events may be published by event organisers and on council or community event pages.
The London Fire Brigade fireworks safety page also provides advice about public displays and firework safety.
Check event details directly with the organiser before travelling.
Where can I buy fireworks?
Only buy fireworks from a registered or licensed retailer, either in-store or online, and never from an unknown seller on social media.
You must be 18 or over to buy adult fireworks.
Registered sellers can sell fireworks for private use during specified periods, including 15 October to 10 November and 26 to 31 December, as well as the three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year.
At other times, fireworks can only be bought from a retailer licensed to sell them throughout the year.
What could happen if I let fireworks off in the street or park?
Setting off or throwing fireworks in a street or other public place is illegal.
Enforcement officers will be carrying out patrols in relation to prohibited firework use. Illegal use can result in an on-the-spot fine of £100, prosecution, an unlimited fine and, in serious cases, imprisonment.
Fireworks must never be thrown or aimed at a person, animal, vehicle or property, or used in a way that puts others at risk.
How will officers respond to reports of fireworks?
During the two week operation we'll monitor live response hours, reports made through the dedicated phone line will be assessed to see whether a same-evening response is appropriate.
Officers will consider factors including the location, timing, level of risk, available information, officer safety and available resources.
Where appropriate, information may also be shared with the police, fire service, CCTV team or other partners.
Reporting an incident does not guarantee that officers will attend. If there is an immediate risk to life or property, call 999.
How do I choose the right fireworks for my garden?
Consider attending an organised display instead.
If you decide to have fireworks at home, think about your neighbours and nearby pets. Consider buying quieter or low-noise fireworks, and let your neighbours know in advance when you plan to use them.
If you decide to have a display at home, only buy fireworks from a registered or licensed seller and check the category, minimum safety distance and space required on the packaging before buying.
Category F2 fireworks are intended for outdoor use in relatively confined areas, while Category F3 fireworks need a much larger open space. Category F4 fireworks are for professional use only.
Make sure your garden is large enough to meet the safety distance shown on the packaging. If it isn't, do not use that firework.
Always read and follow the instructions, keep spectators at the recommended safety distance and have a bucket of water or hose nearby. Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
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How can I help my pet prepare for fireworks?
Plan ahead if you know fireworks are likely.
Keep dogs and cats indoors, close windows and curtains, and give them a familiar, secure place to hide. Use background sound to help mask sudden bangs.
Walk dogs earlier in the day and keep them on a lead when fireworks may be in use. Make sure doors, gates and fences are secure, and check that your pet’s microchip and identification details are up to date.
Give small outdoor pets extra bedding and nesting material to help them feel secure.
If your pet has a history of severe distress around fireworks, speak to your vet for advice in advance.
Further advice is available in the government’s fireworks safety guidance and guidance from the Guide Dogs UK.
Will the council respond if I think fireworks are too noisy?
Firework noise is often short-lived and it can be difficult to identify its exact source, so it is unlikely to meet the legal test for a statutory noise nuisance or allow an immediate council response.
If fireworks are being used in a street or other public place, outside the permitted hours, or in a dangerous or antisocial way, report this through the this site or police route.
If there is an immediate risk to life or property, call 999.
What should I do if fireworks are being set off outside the permitted times?
The restrictions on setting off fireworks during night-time hours are enforced by the police, not the council.
If fireworks are being used outside the permitted times, report this to the police on 101.
Call 999 if there is an immediate danger to life or property or a crime is in progress.
Officers may record and share relevant information with the police, but they cannot enforce a breach of the national firework curfew.