Thank you to everyone who gave us their views on the proposed Firework Control Zones in
- Balerno
- Calton Hill
- Corstorphine
- Gracemount
- Longstone
- Moredun
- Niddrie
- Seafield
- Sighthill.
The consultation is now closed.
Timeline
March 2025 - communities were able to apply for areas to be considered as Firework Control Zones.
April to June 2025 - these applications were assessed and evaluated by the Council, fire, and police services.
June to July 2025 – public consultation on proposed zones.
August - Culture and Communities committee will consider a report on the findings and make recommendations on whether to put the Firework Control Zones in place for 2025.
60 day lay period before zones can be put into place.
31 October to 9 November – potential Firework Control Zones.
About firework control zones and the legislation
We can not ban fireworks, as this is a reserved right for the UK Government. The does give councils power to introduce Firework Control Zones (FCZ) limiting the use of fireworks for specific times. Once an FCZ has been agreed, Police Scotland will seek to enforce any offences under the with the maximum penalty being a £5,000 fine or a 6 month custodial sentence.
We will use FCZs along with other measures to support the safe use of fireworks. Currently we tackle issues involving fireworks by
- raise awareness within local communities by carrying out effective early intervention and prevention with families.
- engaging with young people in schools, through our local partnership approach with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and Police Scotland.
- engaging with young people using diversionary activities
- working with Police Scotland who carry out enforcement activities.
Before a FCZ can be agreed or if a FCZ needs to be amended or revoked we must consult with
- people who live or work in the proposed zone
- other members of the local community in or near the proposed zone.
- other persons or bodies of interest that the local authority considers having a connection with the proposed zone.
Exemptions within a FCZ include
- public firework displays, subject to certain requirements
- the use of certain fireworks designated as being grade F1.
An FCZ can be considered for the following reasons:
- misuse of fireworks/injuries
- impact on vulnerable groups
- environmental protection
- animal welfare.
The UK Firework Review is a full of tips, advice and informative articles about having safe and successful firework displays.