Fireworks Regulations 2004

 In Force from 7^th August 2004

Curfew

The curfew prohibits persons from using adult fireworks (anything apart from party poppers or caps) during night hours (11pm to 7am). Exceptions allow use until 1am on the nights of Chinese New Year, Diwali, New Years Eve, and until midnight on November 5^th. There is also an exception for the purposes of local authority firework displays, national public celebrations or national commemorative events.

Noise

The supply, purchase or possession of a category 3 firework that has a noise level exceeding 120 decibels is banned. 

Notices

Suppliers of adult fireworks must display a notice stating that it is a criminal offence to supply adult fireworks to those under eighteen, and for those under eighteen to possess such fireworks.

Fireworks suppliers’ must provide a local licensing authority with information about fireworks in circumstances where the total net explosive content of fireworks supplied in a single transaction exceeds 50 kilograms

Licensing – NB This part of the legislation is in force from 1^st January 2005

Suppliers of adult fireworks are required to hold a licence, except at certain times of year. Licences are granted by Staffordshire County Council. The Council must refuse a licence unless the applicant complies with legal requirements concerning the keeping of fireworks, and may refuse a licence (or revoke a licence previously granted) if the applicant has committed any of the listed fireworks related offences listed. The license allows the holder to supply fireworks on the first day of the Chinese new year and 3 days immediately preceding it, on the first day of Diwali and 3 days immediately preceding it, from 15 October to 10 November and 26 December to 31 December. Traders wishing to supply at any other time must obtain a separate licence.