Everyone should be able to enjoy fireworks safely, whether that be at an organised event or in a back garden. However, it can be confusing knowing the rules and regulations around firework use, including how late fireworks can be let off. Here, we’ll discuss what time fireworks can be let off and the laws surrounding it.
Categories of Fireworks & Who Can Buy Them
Fireworks are divided into four hazard types for storage licensing purposes and to determine who can purchase the fireworks safely. The categories include:
- Category one fireworks: Category one fireworks include firecrackers, bangers and party poppers which anyone over 16 can buy, carry or use.
- Categories two and three fireworks: These are classed as ‘adult fireworks’ that you can purchase in the shops and include rocket fireworks, multi-shot fireworks and fountain fireworks. Anyone over 18 can buy, carry or use categories two and three fireworks. You can’t use fireworks on the street or in a public place unless it’s an organised event by licenced professionals.
- Category four fireworks: Only licenced professionals can buy, carry or use category four fireworks.
These categories are in place to prevent damage to property or harm to people and animals. Let’s Party Fireworks has a huge range of fireworks in categories that are suitable for you, take a look at our selection now!
How Late Can Fireworks Be Set Off?
Around bonfire night, New Year’s Eve and other important holidays, you can expect the night sky to be lit up with colour and sparkles. However, there are currently strict guidelines in place to prevent disturbances in your neighbourhood, including how late you can let off fireworks. Fireworks can be used in the UK any time from 7 am to 11 pm. After 11 pm, you can be fined for the use of fireworks. However, there are some exceptions regarding what time fireworks can be let off:
- Bonfire night fireworks can be set off from 7 am to midnight
- New Year’s Eve fireworks, Diwali fireworks and Chinese New Year fireworks can be set off from 7 am to 1 am the following day
Is It Legal to Have a Bonfire with Fireworks?
In short, yes! There are no laws against having a bonfire in your garden, however, there are laws in place that regards the problems they can cause. For example, your bonfire shouldn’t be a nuisance to your neighbours in regards to the smoke that drifts into their garden or into the roads that then becomes a hazard to passing traffic. You must also not burn household waste that will cause problems to people’s health or pollution.
Letting of Fireworks
The laws surrounding how late fireworks can be set off have certain exceptions including national events like Guy Fawkes Night and New Year’s Eve. However, no matter the time of year, it’s important to be careful when letting off fireworks or hosting bonfires so that they don’t become a nuisance or harmful to those around you. Let’s Party Fireworks has a range of high-quality fireworks that are sure to put on an incredible display at your next home or public event.