Fireworks and the law

There are laws about when fireworks can be sold, and to who – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.

If you are under 18, you can't:

• buy the types of fireworks which can be sold only to adults
• have fireworks in public places

If you do, the police can give you an on-the-spot fine of £80.

Using fireworks legally

It is against the law to:

• set off or throw fireworks in the street or other public place
• set off fireworks between 11.00 pm and 7.00 am – except during certain celebrations

If found guilty by the courts, you could be fined up to £5,000 and can be imprisoned for up to three months. You may be liable for an on-the-spot fine of £80.

When you can use fireworks during celebrations

You can let off fireworks :

• until midnight on Bonfire Night
• until 1.00 am on New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year