UK considers restrictions on public fireworks amid animal welfare concerns

In January, a parliamentary debate highlighted these issues, with two petitions garnering over 180,000 signatures each. Subsequently, the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade concluded a consultation proposing measures such as limiting louder fireworks to professional use.

Harriet Main, a public affairs manager at the RSPCA, expressed enthusiasm for the consultation, stating, “For too long, pets, wildlife, and livestock have suffered from stress, fright and severe injury caused by loud unregulated back-yard DIY displays.” The RSPCA’s online campaign generated over 51,000 responses demonstrating public support for animal protection.

Reports of animal fatalities linked to fireworks have surfaced in recent years, including the death of a baby red panda at Edinburgh Zoo and a dachshund in North Yorkshire.

While a complete ban on public fireworks sales has been ruled out, the government is considering expanding the list of prohibited fireworks and reducing the permissible decibel level from 120dB to 110dB, effectively halving their loudness.

Dr. Gwen Rees, president of the British Veterinary Association, believes lower noise limits would alleviate distress while allowing celebrations to continue, but emphasizes that “quieter fireworks are not a complete solution.” She advocates for clearer labeling, responsible use, and increased public awareness.

The National Farmers’ Union supports stricter regulations, citing animal welfare and fire risks. One member reported losing four acres of wheat due to a firework igniting a standing crop.

Changes to fireworks regulations are expected to be implemented as parliamentary time allows, followed by a six-month transitional period. The British Fireworks Association cautions that restricting legal products could drive consumers to unregulated sources.

Similar regulatory shifts are occurring internationally. The Netherlands implemented a nationwide ban on most consumer fireworks in August, and Czechia has also tightened its rules. Swiss citizens will vote on a fireworks ban on November 29th. Germany limits the timeframe for fireworks sales and use, while some zones have outright bans. A recent survey in Germany indicated nearly half of respondents favor a total ban, with exceptions for small fireworks like sparklers.

Helen Whitelegg, campaigns manager at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, notes that firework control zones in Scotland have had mixed results and that a licensing requirement for fireworks use has been postponed due to resource limitations. She supports a maximum loudness of 90dB, as in New Zealand, and acknowledges that change is likely, given trends in other countries.