Fireworks in the United Kingdom (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Adult fireworks may not be sold to anyone under 18 and may be bought from registered sellers only in set periods around Bonfire Night, New Year, Diwali and Chinese New Year. They may not be let off between 11pm and 7am except on certain nights, nor in the street or other public places.

RuleWhat applies
Consumers may buy and use category F2 fireworksConsumer fireworks (category F2)Yes [1]
Minimum age to buyConsumer fireworks (category F2)18 years [2]
Minimum age to buyConsumer fireworks (category F2)16 years [2]
Minimum age to possess or let offConsumer fireworks (category F2); England and Wales18 years [3]
When they may be sold to the publicConsumer fireworks (category F2)15 October to 10 November, 26 to 31 December, and the 3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year. At other times only from licensed shops. [1]
When they may be let offConsumer fireworks (category F2); England and WalesNot between 11pm and 7am. Exceptions: Bonfire Night until midnight; New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year until 1am. [4]
Where they may not be let offConsumer fireworks (category F2)Setting off or throwing fireworks, including sparklers, in the street or other public places is prohibited. [1]

Notes

  • The GOV.UK page does not name the nations it covers. Check the rules for Scotland and Northern Ireland separately.
  • Applies to category F1 other than Christmas crackers (12 years).
  • This is the age for possessing an adult firework in a public place, not for buying. Regulation 4 has exceptions in regulation 6.
  • Regulation 7 applies in England and Wales. Council displays and national celebration events are also exempt.

Sources

  1. GOV.UK: Fireworks: the law (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. legislation.gov.uk: The Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015, regulation 31 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. legislation.gov.uk: The Fireworks Regulations 2004, regulation 4 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  4. legislation.gov.uk: The Fireworks Regulations 2004, regulation 7 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.