Fireworks ban and restrictions backed by 2.85m in petitions

More than 2.85 million people have signed petitions calling for tougher regulations, with 498 separate petitions demanding action.

The most common requests include ending sales to the general public and switching to quieter alternatives.

Current fireworks rules "aren't working"

John Kalicki, from East London, launched a petition this week after his 11-year-old son Kieran was seriously injured by a firework.

Mr Kalicki said: "Another young child had got hold of a firework, lit it and pointed it at him.

"It exploded in his face.

"Kieran is now in Whipps Cross Hospital.

"Hot ash and debris mean he can't open his eye, he's in constant pain, and he's due to have an operation."

He said existing regulations are not effective, pointing to the high number of annual injuries.

Do you use fireworks at home to help celebrate major events? (Image: Lucinda Cameron/Press Association)

Mr Kalicki said: "It doesn't have to be this way.

"In 2002, Northern Ireland brought in licences for buying most fireworks, and the number of injuries fell sharply the following year.

"That's why I'm calling on the government to end the sale of fireworks to the public and limit them to licensed, professionally run displays.

"Families can still enjoy Bonfire Night safely, without children like Kieran paying the price.

"The incident has left us with emotional scars, hospital visits, and a fear of every fireworks season.

"No family should have to endure such pain, and no celebration is worth the risk of a child's safety."

Calls for tighter restrictions on fireworks in the UK

Another petition, started by Alan Smith, calls for stricter rules on the sale of fireworks in the UK.

It includes making 'challenge 25' compulsory and restricting sales to garden display boxes worth more than £50.

Is it time to ban fireworks? 🎆 For most people, Bonfire Night means watching spectacular firework displays. But for our pets, those big bangs can be frightening and distressing. #fireworks #bonfirenight #pets https://t.co/kTSsDHWGW1

— Good Morning Britain (@GMB) November 5, 2026

Other proposals include restricting use to a few days around key events such as Guy Fawkes Night, New Year, Christmas, and Diwali.

The petition also calls for limiting the time window for setting off fireworks.

Currently, they can be used between 7am and 11pm, but Mr Smith suggests a narrower window of 4pm to 11pm.

Mr Smith said: "The terror and stress that is caused by fireworks is unacceptable.

"In addition, this should discourage irresponsible youths from purchasing individual fireworks to cause mayhem."

His mother, Josephine, died in a house fire started by a firework pushed through her letterbox.

Mr Smith said: "Let's work together to push for change.

"To prevent tragedy, reduce stress on pets and wildlife.

"Help those among us that suffer with PTSD.

"But also allow those of us that enjoy fireworks to do so in a safe and responsible manner."

The petition has received more than 69,000 signatures (at the time of writing).

Should fireworks be banned in the UK?

Petitions related to fireworks have more than tripled since 2023.

There are currently nearly 500 UK petitions calling for tighter fireworks rules, backed by more than 2.85 million signatures.

One in 12 are calling for an outright ban, with the most common requests including ending sales to the general public (152 petitions) and switching to quieter alternatives (135).

In a poll of more than 6,500 readers, around 60% said they opposed a ban on public sales, while 40% supported it.

The Government previously said it is examining "existing positions" on fireworks in the UK and would decide "if and where policy changes may be needed".

The hours it's illegal to use fireworks in the UK

It is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am in the UK, according to the Government website.

However, there are exemptions. You are able to set off fireworks until 12am on Bonfire Night and 1am on New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year.

The UK Government adds: "The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places."

Before setting off any fireworks, the Government recommends visiting your council's website to see if there are any local rules in place.

You can also get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.

What is the penalty for using fireworks illegally?

You can be fined or imprisoned for using fireworks illegally in the UK.

The Government website explains: "You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally.

"You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90."

When can you buy fireworks in the UK?

Fireworks are only available to buy from registered sellers for private use on specific dates:

• October 15 to November 10
• December 26 to 31
• The three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year

The Government adds: "At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops."

Do you think fireworks should be banned in the UK? Let us know in the poll above or in the comments below.