This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Firework laws
04/11/2005
New rules are now in force which aim to address the irresponsible use of fireworks which can cause misery for people and pets in communities across Scotland, especially on Bonfire Night.
There are a range of regulations in place to stamp out the anti-social behaviour fireworks can cause - including a ban on the public buying the noisiest and most powerful fireworks and a ban on under-18s possessing adult fireworks.
Curfew regulations which mean it is now illegal to set off fireworks after midnight on Bonfire Night carry a fine of £5000 and/or six months imprisonment.
Deputy Minister for Finance and Public Services George Lyon said:
"We can all enjoy well-organised displays and there is no doubt fireworks used safely at home can also add to the atmosphere of special occasions like Bonfire Night.
"Unfortunately, the irresponsible use of fireworks can also bring misery to communities. We have worked closely with the Department of Trade and Industry to stamp out the anti-social behaviour vandals and louts can inflict on young people, old people, families and pets.
"I believe these new regulations will help address some of the problems communities have faced. I hope people will recognise that fireworks are explosives, not toys, and therefore need to be treated with respect.
"The responsible use of fireworks at home or, better still, a spectacular well-organised public display is the best way to guarantee that you and your family enjoy a safe Bonfire Night this year."
In 2004, there were 68 injuries from fireworks in Scotland. This compares to 71 in 2003 and 120 in 2002.
Curfew regulations, introduced in October 2004, mean that it is illegal to set off fireworks after 11pm on most nights of the year. It is illegal to set off fireworks after midnight on Bonfire Night. However, on Hogmanay, the curfew is extended to 1am.
The new regulations also mean that on Chinese New Year and Diwali setting off fireworks must also stop at 1am. Local authorities have the power to grant further dispensations for special local occasions.
The regulations also mean:
- Under 18s in possession of an adult firework (any firework except for a cap, cracker snap, novelty matches, party poppers, serpents, throwdowns and sparklers) in a public place is illegal
- Members of the public are banned from possessing "Category Four" professional fireworks, the largest most powerful type used for public displays
- Air bombs and mini rockets are prohibited from being supplied to the public
- Retailers have to actively check a customer's age if there is any doubt they are under 18
- A noise limit of 120 decibels for category three fireworks, the largest and most powerful fireworks available to the public
From January 2005, a new licensing system for those supplying fireworks all year round and improved controls on the import of fireworks came into force.