Firework Control
Powers for local authorities to create firework control zones were brought into force in 2023 along with detailed guidance on the circumstances where a control zone might be appropriate and the consultation process to be followed in the creation of a firework control zone.
Firework control zones must have clearly defined boundaries and be evidence based and proportionate. The guidance makes clear that firework control zones should not cover a whole local authority area or extensive parts of a local authority.
The guidance contains examples of reasons why a firework control zone could be designated, these include the following:
- Misuse of fireworks and antisocial behaviour involving fireworks
- Injuries from fireworks
- Animal welfare
- Impact on vulnerable groups
- Environmental protection
In each category the local authority would be expected to have a good evidence base for the designation of a zone. There is also an expectation that other courses of action would have been considered.
Discussions with Community Safety Partners (principally Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue) concluded that there was no evidence to support a Council promoted control zone at this time.
The guidance requires local authorities to have a process for considering community requests for control zones. The Inverclyde process is attached together with the formal consultation process should the request meet the requirements of the guidance. This process is lengthy with timescales set by the guidance so requesters should be aware that even if a zone is eventually approved this could take a considerable amount of time. Initial requests should be e-mailed to the link on this page.