Fireworks

It is against the law for

anyone under 18 to possess fireworks
anyone except professionals to possess display fireworks in a public place

For more information see Fireworks (Amendment) Regulations 2004.

These regulations also prohibit the use of fireworks at night (11:00pm- 7:00am), with the following extensions for festivals:

until 1:00am on the night of the Chinese New Year
until 1:00am on the night of Diwali
until 1:00am on the night on New Year's Eve
until midnight on 5 November

These regulations are enforced by the police. There is a penalty of up to £5,000 or 6 months in prison for breach of curfew. The supply, purchase or possession of excessively loud fireworks over 120 decibels are also prohibited.

To report problems with fireworks contact Northants Police or phone 0300 011 1222.

How to avoid causing a risk of nuisance to neighbours

tell your neighbours you are planning to let off fireworks
use appropriate fireworks - when buying fireworks, try to avoid noisy ones in sensitive locations
make sure pets and other animals are safely away from fireworks
if you are using fireworks for a celebration, a Friday or Saturday is preferable and make sure they are over by 11:00pm
avoid letting off fireworks in unsuitable weather
let off your fireworks in an open garden area - noise bounces off buildings and smoke and pollution can build up in enclosed spaces
if a neighbour complains that you are disturbing them, their pets or livestock, be considerate
after your display, clear up firework fallout and dispose of it safely

Last updated 09 October 2023