Scotland's laws on fireworks are to become a lot stricter from today, as they are now banned in certain areas.
Under new legislation enforced on Thursday as part of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Articles Act (Scotland) 2022, councils are now able to prohibit the use of fireworks in designated areas.
Those caught knowingly igniting or throwing pyrotechnics into these firework control zones will be committing a criminal offence, risking a maximum £5,000 fine and a possible six month prison sentence. Scots should familiarise themselves with these zones in their local community to avoid penalties.
Such areas could include public gardens, private properties or parks and will be decided by local authorities. However, public firework displays will still be allowed in these zones for safe enjoyment.
The news comes following legislation banning the misuse of certain pyrotechnics enacted earlier this month. For example, football fans caught lighting flares at matches with more than 1,000 attendees could land in hot water.
Further restrictions including a licensing system for people wishing to buy and use fireworks is expected in autumn 2024 at the earliest.
Community safety minister Siobhan Brown said: “Evidence and engagement with communities shows strong public support for tougher action on fireworks, which along with other pyrotechnic articles can cause harm, serious injury and distress to people, pets and the wider community.
“Giving local authorities additional powers to create firework control zones, with input from the local community, marks a significant step in tackling the issues caused by fireworks, which are dangerous when used inappropriately.
“This change to the law demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve public safety and wellbeing for our communities.”
Police Scotland Chief Inspector Nicola Robison said: “It is a criminal offence to be in possession of, or setting off, fireworks within a fireworks control zone and I would urge all members of the public to be aware of designated zones within your local area to ensure you are not in breach of the legislation.
“Police Scotland is committed to keeping the public safe from the risk of harm associated with the reckless and criminal use of fireworks and we welcome the addition of fireworks control zones within Scotland.”
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