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With Bonfire Night just around the corner, families across the UK are likely to be planning their firework celebrations - which could unknowingly land them with a hefty fine. The laws surround fireworks exist to protest people and wildlife from harm and to avoid distress and nuisance caused to anyone. Bonfire Night originated back in 1605 after Guy Fawkes failed in his plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament, an event known in history as the Gunpowder Plot. For those planning a Bonfire Night party this year and are currently busy preparing a firework display , here’s how you can stay on the right side of the law and avoid landing yourself a fine. Throughout the year, it is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am. However, on Bonfire Night you can legally set off fireworks between 7am until 12am. There are slightly different rules and laws on special occasions such New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year when fireworks are allowed between 7am and 1am. You must be 18 or over to purchase fireworks and it is illegal to set off or throw fireworks in the street or other public places. It is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am on an ordinary day, however on Bonfire Night you get an extra hour, so it is illegal between 12pm and 7am. You can only buy fireworks and sparklers for private use in the following dates: It is illegal to buy fireworks or sparklers outside of this time unless you buy them from licensed shops. The government has warned that you can be fined an unlimited amount of money and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally. There may be local rules within your area regarding fireworks so it is worth checking out your council’s website.
