The law around fireworks and when you can be fined or even imprisoned ahead of Bonfire Night
by Sonia Sharma · ChronicleLivePeople are being warned about the illegal use of fireworks ahead of Bonfire Night.
A number of events are taking place across the North East and the rest of the UK this weekend to mark Bonfire Night, which is on Tuesday, November 5. Meanwhile, families are also celebrating Diwali, with activities planned over the weekend.
However, many may not know that you can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90. The rules are outlined below.
Fireworks and the law
On its website, the Government makes it clear that you cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you are under 18 and it is against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions.
Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks - they do not include things like party poppers. Category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals.
The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places. And you must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:
- Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
- New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am
People are also urged to check with their councils to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks.
Buying fireworks
You can only buy fireworks (including sparklers) from registered sellers for private use on these dates:
- 15 October to 10 November
- 26 to 31 December
- 3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops. You can get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.
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