Copyright birminghammail
A major law change on Wednesday sees the risk of SIX MONTHS in prison for UK households. Bonfire Night is November 5, 2026, and people are being reminded you cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18. Usually, it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions. Today - Wednesday - is one of those such occasions, according to the Labour Party government website. 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. READ MORE Older drivers face new roadside test in England and could have licence revoked The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places. You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight. Other reasons could be New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am. You should check with your council to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks, the government has gone on to say. You can also get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive. 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 and 3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year. At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops, the government website goes on to stipulate, ahead of the celebrations this evenings. Remember that households 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," the government website goes on to also warn.
