Exact rules on setting off fireworks in your garden explained - according to law
One of the UK's most beloved traditions, Bonfire Night dates all the way back to 1605 and has a pretty dark history: originating as a way to mark a thwarted plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate the King by Catholic conspirators in 1605.
The Guy Fawkes Plot, as it is also known, would have changed the course of British history if it suceeded, and it's also where the famous rhyme comes from: 'Remember, remember the fifth of November. Gunpowder, treason and plot."
The celebration aspect came as a form of thanksgiving, to mark that so many lives had been saved after an anonymous letter warned of the planned attack. Bonfires are set across the country - the largest in Lewes, Sussex - with firework displays and sometimes effigies of Fawkes, or other unpopular public figures are still set on the bonfires and burnt.
With the celebrations just around the corner, if you are planning to have your own firework display at home, rather than attending a community one, it's best to be aware of all the laws surrounding these ahead of time. Keep reading for a refresher on the do's and do not's of fireworks at home.
Can I set off fireworks in my garden?
You are allowed to set off fireworks in your own garden, but there are some restrictions. For celebrations like Bonfire Night you can set them off until midnight, but any later is illegal.
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For other holidays like Diwali, Chinese New Year and New Year's Eve you can set them off until 1am. Outside of these special occasions you can only set off fireworks in your back garden until 11pm. Any fireworks set off between 11pm and 7am could land you in trouble.
Can I buy fireworks?
Fireworks are restricted products, so you can't get hold of them at any time. They are only available for purchase by the public during certain periods of the year. Here are the dates you can buy fireworks for private use:
- 15 October to 10 November
- 26 to 31 December
- 3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
You must purchase them from a registered seller, if you use fireworks illegally you can face an unlimited fine and a custodial sentence of up to six months. Outside of the above dates fireworks are only available to buy from licensed shops.
Who can use fireworks?
This is who can use fireworks according to The Fireworks Regulations 2004 and The Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015:
- anyone over 18 can buy, carry or use category one, two and three fireworks
- anyone over 16 can only buy, carry or use category one fireworks
- anyone over 12 can buy Christmas crackers
- only licensed professionals can buy, carry and use category 4 fireworks
Do I have to tell my neighbours if I am setting off fireworks?
You aren't legally obliged to tell your neighbours, but it is good form to do so. People with pets, young children, or those who are taking care of a vulnerable person - like someone suffering from dementia - will almost certainly appreciate the heads up.
It will give them the opportunity to make alternative plans if they don't want to experience the noise, or to watch and enjoy your display if they are also fans of firework displays. Remember, Bonfire Night is only one day, but they are your neighbours all year round, so it's best for everyone to keep good relations in tact.
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