Laymen's Guide to 2004 Firework Regulations

• Airbombs and cheap nuisance rockets now banned
  
  
• It is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place (sparklers etc exempt)
  
  
• Maximum noise limit for fireworks - 120Db (almax) Peak noise effect
  
  
• It is illegal to let off fireworks between 11pm and 7am
  Exceptions
  • December 31st, 1am
  • Chinese New Year, 1am
  • Diwali Night, 1am
  • November 5th, 12pm
  
  
  
• Local authorities now have the right to demand "paper trail" proof from anyone involved in the storage or movement of more than 50Kg Net of fireworks (It is hoped that this will go some way to stamp out illegal distribution and storage but BFA members feel that much stronger measures are needed)
  
  
• From January 1st 2005. Unless a special licence has been granted (*) by the local authority selling periods for retailers will be limited as follows:
  October 15th - December 10th inc, December 26th - December 31st, 7 days before Diwali, 7 days before Chinese New Year
  
  * These licences are at the discretion of the local authority and will carry a substantial annual fee of up to £500