We want everyone in Norwich to enjoy fireworks in a way that is safe and respectful of neighbours, animals and the environment.
If you are planning to let off fireworks for a celebration or light a bonfire, please read the guidance below.
For your own safety:
- Only buy from licenced sellers and check they meet safety standards
- Remember, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to buy fireworks
- Let fireworks off on traditional celebration dates, so others know when to expect them, and remember the fireworks curfew (midnight on Bonfire Night, 1am on Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year, 11pm for the rest of the year)
- Follow all the safety instructions on the box
- Know what fireworks you can use at home
- Always follow the Firework Code
For your neighbours and their pets:
- Let your neighbours know in advance if you plan to let off any fireworks or have a bonfire
- Let anywhere that keeps animals nearby know in advance if you plan to let off fireworks
- Keep pets safe – keep dogs and cats inside with somewhere to hide and give small pets extra bedding material to hide in
- You might want to try low noise fireworks to reduce the effects loud bangs can have on animals and people
- If you are a pet owner, the RSPCA has advice about fireworks
Bonfires:
- Take care when building your bonfire – make sure there is nothing nearby that could help it to spread and make sure it is at least five times its height away from your home
- Never use petrol or any other flammable chemicals to start a bonfire
- Keep water at hand – a garden hose or a bucket of water in case of an emergency
- Children should be under constant supervision and told safety information in advance
- Only use dry material for burning – anything damp will cause a lot more smoke
- For more advice, see our Bonfires and smoke page
Enforcement:
Regulations around firework curfews are enforced by the police. There is a penalty of up to £5,000 or six months in prison for breach of curfew. The supply, purchase or possession of excessively loud fireworks over 120 decibels is also prohibited.
The sale of fireworks to under 18s is banned. This is enforced by Trading Standards.
Throwing or setting off of fireworks in a street is an offence which is enforced by the police, with a fine of up to £5,000.
