Firework noise and enforcement

Fireworks

In line with the Noise Act 1996, there is a curfew on the use of fireworks between 11pm and 7am, with the exception of the following nights where the curfew will vary:

  • Bonfire night - until midnight
  • New Years Eve - 1am on the following day
  • Chinese New Year - 1am on the following day
  • Diwali - 1am on the following day

You are committing an offence if you use fireworks outside of these times. You may also be creating unnecessary noise nuisance that will affect neighbours in the area, which may lead to complaints being made against you to the local authority.

Please note - although there is undoubtedly a high level of noise created by firework displays, especially during the above calendar events, due to the temporary nature of such events is it highly unlikely that a noise complaint would constitute a statutory nuisance that could be investigated or lead to enforcement action being taken by the local authority. 

The police are responsible for enforcing the following firework issues:

  • possession of fireworks by persons under the age of 18 in public places
  • possession of category 4 fireworks by anyone other than a fireworks professional
  • use of certain fireworks during night hours (see above curfew information)

The Explosives Act 1875 (as amended) - Section 80

Throwing fireworks

It is an offence to throw or discharge a firework in the street or public place.

Penalties

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000.