Fireworks are beautiful and festive, which is why seeing them up in the sky is simply breathtaking. Despite the beauty that they bring, there are laws regarding their usage, which means that you are not free to set off fireworks anytime you want. This mostly depends on the country you live in, but if you’re in the UK, there are certain laws you need to follow before you colour the sky with beautiful displays of illuminations.
In this article, we will share more about the laws in the UK regarding fireworks so that you can stay out of trouble:
Firework Requirements
In Britain, fireworks can only be sold and handled in public by individuals over 18 years old. The products for sale fall under three categories that come with their own rules.
Category 1 is indoor fireworks that can only be used in restricted areas. The category 2 fireworks require an 8-metre viewing distance, while category 3 requires a 25-metre viewing distance.
There are also the category 4 fireworks that only professionals who have trained under the British Pyrotechnists Associations can purchase and handle. These are mostly used in professional displays.
Time of Fireworks
In the UK, you cannot set them off between 11 pm and 7 am. However, there are certain exceptions in which they can be used until 1 am during Diwali, Chinese New Year, and New Year’s Eve. Bonfire Night allows fireworks until midnight as well.
Where to Buy Fireworks
The UK has licensed firework sellers, yet, two types of licenses given to suppliers. Retailers are only given a short-term permit that lets them sell these products at specific times of the year. On the other hand, some are given a long-term license that can sell all-year-round.
Where to Set Off Fireworks
If you purchase fireworks, you usually can only set it off within your property. This is primarily because setting them in the street or public places are considered a criminal offence. If you want to use them in a public place or at an event, you will need to acquire express permission from your local authority beforehand.
European Countries That Have Stricter Rules
Keep in mind that there are some countries in Europe that have strict rules regarding the use of fireworks. Germany, for one, only allows residents to purchase fireworks three days before New Year’s Eve. Finland only has fireworks for sale between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, but they are only to be used between 6 pm to 2 am on New Year’s Eve. On the other hand, Ireland requires a professional fireworks operator on the scene. However, the sale of these products is not allowed in the country.
Conclusion
Before you buy fireworks in the UK, it’s vital that you know the rules regarding their use, or you might get in trouble with your local authority. Knowing the various categories of fireworks for sale, the time you’re allowed to set them off, and where you can light them up is vital. There are also some European countries that have stricter rules when it comes to fireworks, so you need to be mindful of these details before you get some.
Should you need fireworks for an event, you should always purchase quality fireworks from a licensed seller. Fortunately, there are many of them in the UK, and you can even find fireworks for sale online!
If you want to get high-quality fireworks for sale online in the UK from a trusted shop, check out Lets Party Fireworks. We offer safe fireworks that are perfect for all occasions. Visit our website today, and place your order!