COMPLAINTS ABOUT FIREWORKS

I have had a number of complaints again this year about fire works being let off at all hours of the day in the Oscott area.

One of the things I am being asked is what are the rules in regards to Fireworks.
I hope this helps.

The law which was put in place by the last government
How the Laws effect You
It is an offence for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place.
It is an offence to use fireworks between 11.00pm and 7.00am.
There are, however, extensions for the following celebrations:
5th November - to 12.00 midnight
Diwali - to 1.00am
New Year - to 1.00am on 1st January
Chinese New Year - to 1.00am on the following day
This curfew applies to all places, including gardens and private land.
These requirements arise from the Firework Regulations 2004 and are enforced by the Police.
There is a penalty of up to £5000 or 6 months in prison. On the spot fines can also be issued for breach of the regulations.
It remains an offence for anyone under 18 to purchase fireworks.

Apart from the normal Sunday Trading laws, there are no restrictions on the hours during which fireworks may be sold.

Retailers with a licence, may sell fireworks throughout the year.
The periods where selling without a licence is permitted are:
(a) November 5th (15th October to 10th November)
(b) New Year (26th December to 31st December)
(c) Chinese New Year (on the first day of the Chinese New Year and the three days
immediately preceding it)
(d) Diwali (on the day of Diwali (28/10/08) and the three days immediately preceding)

Retailers selling during these periods without a licence MUST have a registration to store fireworks. The licensing and registration of fireworks and explosives is a function of the West Midlands Fire Service, through Hay Mills Fire Safety Centre. (0121 7531313). Any breaches of these laws will also be dealt with by the Fire Service.
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If you see anyone using fire works in a dangerous way, throwing them at other people or at animals please contact the Police.
If you ate buying and using Fireworks pl;ease take care and also ensure there are no animals about when you let them off.
If you are going to have a bonfire make sure there are no hedgehogs underneath your bonfire.