Every year around a thousand people are seriously injured by fireworks. The majority of these injuries happen to children and young adults. Whether you are attending an organised display or having your own, ensure that you follow the guidance below.

Permitted times for fireworks

It is an offence for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place and for fireworks to be used between 11pm and 7am with exception to the following dates and times:

• 5 November - until midnight
• Diwali 'Festival of Lights' - until 1am the following day
• New Year - until 1am on 1 January
• Chinese New Year - until 1am the following day

These regulations are enforced by the police with a penalty of up to £5,000 or six months in prison for breach of the curfew.

Noise disturbance caused by fireworks

Fireworks regulations restrict the level of noise from fireworks to 120 decibels. The regulations concerning the manufacture and sale of fireworks are enforced by Trading Standards.

It is unlikely that noise from fireworks can be dealt with as a statutory nuisance as it is a transient activity and if carried out within the permitted hours.

However, if fireworks are set off regularly and having a significant effect upon the use or enjoyment of your property, this could constitute a statutory noise nuisance and we will investigate the matter. We will need to know the exact location and times when the fireworks are being set off.

Anyone caught throwing or setting off fireworks in the street or other public place can be fined under the Explosives Act 1875.

Always follow the firework code

Event organisers

If you are organising a public event, you will need to plan responsibly. The Health and Safety Executive and gov.uk have produced guidance on organising safe and successful fireworks displays.