The Government has announced plans to restrict the sale of the loudest fireworks to professional displays in a bid to tackle anti-social behaviour and reduce distress caused to animals, veterans and vulnerable people.
Under the proposals, loud fireworks would no longer be available for private use in gardens or streets but would remain allowed at licensed public displays.
Ministers insist there are no plans to ban organised firework events, describing the changes as a “common-sense” response to growing public concern.
A public consultation on the proposals launched today, seeking views on limiting access to high-noise fireworks while reviewing wider regulations on pyrotechnics and lower-risk fireworks.
Consumer Protection Minister Kate Dearden said complaints about nuisance fireworks had become increasingly common, with concerns extending well beyond traditional celebrations such as Bonfire Night.
“It’s something that’s been brought up time and time again since I’ve been elected,” she said, “it impacts people’s sleep, their kids, their pets, and it’s constant.”
Ms Dearden said she had witnessed the issue firsthand when fireworks were set off near her home in the early hours of the morning, frightening her dog.
She said the Government now wanted to preserve professional displays, while preventing the misuse of powerful fireworks by deviant individuals.
Ministers described the changes as a ‘common-sense’ response to growing public concern
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She added: “I love a good firework display, but what I don’t want is when they’re going off constantly and causing distress. That’s why we’re looking to limit the sale of loud fireworks only to these displays and take them out of the hands of those who use them irresponsibly.”
The proposals follow years of campaigning by charities, emergency services and MPs calling for stricter controls.
Labour MP Sarah Owen, who previously introduced legislation seeking similar reforms, argued fireworks have increasingly been linked to anti-social behaviour, injuries and harm to vulnerable people, including those with PTSD, children with special educational needs and disabilities, and pet owners.
Animal welfare organisations have welcomed the announcement, long arguing that loud fireworks can cause significant stress and, in some cases, fatal injuries to pets and livestock.
Owen Sharp, chief executive of Dogs Trust, said millions of dogs are affected by fireworks every year.
Research by the charity found that almost half of UK dogs show signs of fear or anxiety during firework displays, with many owners equally experiencing distress as they try to comfort frightened pets.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary also backed the proposals, citing the deaths of three rescued horses linked to fireworks.
Campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg said a survey of more than 5,000 horse owners found more than 95 per cent supported tighter regulations, with loud explosions identified as the greatest concern.
Consumer Protection Minister Kate Dearden said complaints about nuisance fireworks had become increasingly common
Veterans’ charity Combat Stress echoed the support for consultation, warning that fireworks can trigger traumatic memories for former service personnel living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Chief executive Chloe Mackay said sudden loud bangs, bright flashes and lingering smoke could recreate the sensory experiences of combat, leading to increased distress during firework season.
She said tighter controls would help veterans better prepare and manage their symptoms.
The review will also examine which specific pyrotechnic products should be banned, and whether existing guidance on lower-risk fireworks requires updating.
