While they are available for the public to buy, there are laws in place about how and when they can be used.
Breaking these laws could result in a fine or imprisonment.
Why do we celebrate Bonfire Night?
The hours it’s illegal to use fireworks in the UK
It is against the law to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am in the UK, according to the Government website.
However, there are exemptions. You are able to set off fireworks until 12am on Bonfire Night and, 1am on New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year.
The UK Government adds: “The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.”
Before setting off any fireworks, the Government recommends visiting your council’s website to see if there are any local rules in place.
You can also get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.
What is the penalty for using fireworks illegally?
You can be fined or imprisoned for using fireworks illegally in the UK.
The Government website explains: “You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally.
“You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.”
Do you know Scotland’s firework laws? Stay safe and don’t risk it. Find out more and check for organised displays near you at https://t.co/m5CaC59y0A pic.twitter.com/uurzFiC3L0
— Edinburgh Libraries (@TalesOfOneCity) October 31, 2025
When can you buy fireworks in the UK?
Fireworks are only available to buy from registered sellers for private use on specific dates. These are:
- October 15 to November 10
- December 26 to 31
- The three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
The Government adds: “At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.”
Should the general public be banned from using fireworks?
There are ongoing calls for the general public to be banned from buying and using fireworks.
One petition from Alan Smith in 2024 titled “limit the sale and use of Fireworks to licence holders only” received more than 87,500 signatures.
Mr Smith, explaining the reason behind his petition, said: “Fireworks killed our mum, Josephine Smith.
“Her home was attacked using fireworks. We believe the use of fireworks after sale to the public cannot be policed.
“We think all displays should be licensed and sales limited to licence holders only.”
The Government responded to Mr Smith’s petition saying: “Most people use fireworks in a responsible and safe manner, with laws in place to address misuse.
“The Government intends to engage with stakeholders to gather evidence on the impact of fireworks.
“The Government takes the misuse of fireworks issues seriously. Where local issues are identified, councils and the police have powers to protect the public from misuse and harm.
“Misuse of fireworks and illegal possession offenses are subject to an unlimited fine and/or six months in prison.”
RECOMMENDED READING:
The statement added the Government was examining “existing positions” on the matter and would decide “if and where policy changes may be needed”.
There are also social media groups calling for a fireworks ban in the UK.
Labour MP Alex Mayer believes fireworks should be restricted to certain weekends to reduce the disruption caused to animals and people.
