Firework Control Zones

Setting off fireworks

Category 2, 3 and 4 fireworks can only be set off between 6-11pm except for:

  • 5 November – can be set off until midnight
  • New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year – can be set off until 1am

It is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place.

It is illegal to set off or throw fireworks in the street or public place.

You can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to 6 months.

Reporting misuse or noise of fireworks

Firework Control Zones

We can impose a Firework Control Zone, even on private property, where it is illegal to use category 2, 3, and 4 fireworks if there is evidence of:

  • misuse of fireworks and anti-social behaviour involving fireworks
  • injuries from fireworks
  • negative impact on animal welfare
  • negative impact on vulnerable groups
  • negative impact on the environment – air quality, natural environment, water pollution

Any group can request a Firework Control Zone for example:

  • community councils
  • resident groups
  • stakeholders within the local community.

Before a Fireworks Control Zone can be considered we consult with:

  • people who live or work in or near the proposed zone
  • people or bodies of interest that have a connection with the proposed zone

It may take up to 32 weeks to establish a Firework Control Zone.

We review applications with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland between January and March each year.

Request a Firework Control Zone

Buying fireworks

  • You must be over 18 to buy category 2, 3 and 4 fireworks.
  • You must have a licence to buy category 4 fireworks.
  • You must have a licence to store and supply fireworks.

Fireworks for private use can only be bought at:

  • 15 October to 10 November
  • 26 to 31 December
  • Diwali and the 3 days before Diwali
  • First day of and the 3 days before Chinese New Year

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