Fireworks safety

Fireworks should be enjoyable and spectacular occasions, however planning is vital before any sized firework display. If you are thinking of using fireworks this year, please keep the following into consideration:

• Only buy fireworks from a legitimate retailer
• Check that fireworks are suitable for the size of the venue and conform to British Standards (BS)
• Read instructions in daylight
• Nominate one person to be responsible for the fireworks
• Tell your neighbours about the event in advance

For more about firework safety see "Firework safety and the law" on Gov.uk (link below).

For further information regarding how to plan a successful event and safety guidelines, please see our event safety guide page

Fireworks and the law

It is an offence to throw fireworks in the street. If found guilty you are liable to a fine of up to £5,000. A similar penalty applies if animals are found to be deliberately targeted by fireworks. There is a ban on the use of fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am, with these exemptions:

• until 1am following the first day of Chinese new year
• until 12 midnight on 5 November
• until 1am on the day following Diwali day
• until 1am on the day following 31 December

Although it is not required by health and safety law, it may be a good idea, if you are holding a public firework display to have public liability insurance.