Key facts
- Ministers are considering proposals to reduce consumer firework decibel levels from 120dB to 110dB.
- The government has ruled out a complete ban on public firework purchases.
- A six-month transitional period will follow any regulatory changes.
- The British Fireworks Association warned of a potential shift to a hidden market for fireworks.
- Scotland's 'firework control zones' have had a mixed reception.
- The Netherlands enacted a nationwide ban on most consumer fireworks in August.
UK ministers are considering a partial ban on backyard fireworks, including reducing the permitted decibel level from 120dB to 110dB and expanding the list of banned fireworks for general sale. The proposals aim to address concerns over animal welfare and noise pollution, following a public consultation. The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade is analyzing feedback, with changes expected after parliamentary time allows. A six-month transitional period will follow any new regulations. Animal welfare groups like the RSPCA and the British Veterinary Association support quieter fireworks, while the National Farmers' Union cited fire risks. However, the British Fireworks Association warned that restricting legal products could push consumers towards illegal markets. Scotland's 'firework control zones' have seen mixed results, and a proposed licensing requirement for fireworks users has been shelved.