When is it legal to buy fireworks?
There are currently no legal restrictions on the times of year when fireworks can be sold, but there is a voluntary code of practice:'Fireworks only to be sold for three weeks before November 5th and a few days afterwards, and for a similar period around New Year.'
What is the law on the supply of fireworks?
Under the Fireworks (Safety) Regulations 1997:* All fireworks for use by the public must meet British Standard BS 7114.
* The sale of fireworks to anyone under 18 years old is banned.
* The sale of caps, cracker snaps and party poppers to anyone under 16 years old is banned.
* The supply of bangers, mini rockets, fireworks that fly erratically (squibs, helicopters etc.) ariel shells, maroons, mortars and some large powerful display fireworks are banned from supply to the public.
The Fireworks Regulations 2004 prohibit the supply of fireworks louder than 120 decibels.
New legislation from January 2005
In January 2005 new legislation came into force in England, Wales and Scotland, where traders now require a licence to supply fireworks all year round.For more information on when fireworks may be sold to the public, please visit the Environmental Protection UK. website.
Storage of Fireworks
Under the Control of Explosives Regulations 1991 it is an offence to keep fireworks (except those for private use) on premises that have not been registered for this purpose.Individuals can store fireworks for private use for up to 14 days, provided they are kept in a safe place.
What laws cover Nuisance and Danger caused by Fireworks
* Explosives Act 1875 - covers throwing or setting off fireworks in the street* Environmental Protection Act 1990 - covers noise nuisance
* Noise Act 1996 - covers excessive noise issues between 11pm and 7am
* Crime and Disorder Act 1998 - covers anti-social behaviour of "harrassment, alarm or distress"
* Protection of Animals Act 1911 - covers unnecessary suffering to animals
For more information on laws covering nuisance and danger caused by Fireworks, please visit Firework Laws at the Environmental Protection UK website.
