The UK government has announced new rules to restrict the loudest fireworks to professional displays, aiming to protect families, pets, and wildlife from disruption. The proposals, unveiled on July 16, 2026, by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), respond to longstanding concerns from residents, charities, emergency services, and animal welfare organisations about excessively noisy fireworks.
Government Crackdown on Disruptive Fireworks
Minister for Consumer Protection Kate Dearden stated: "Extremely loud fireworks used by individuals at all hours of the day and night has become a nightmare for many communities in recent years. The sound of large explosions on residential streets is a cause of fear, disrupted sleep, and does huge harm to our beloved pets." She added that such practices often accompany wider anti-social behaviour, but professional displays that bring communities together should continue.
The government previously responded to a petition calling to "limit" the sale of fireworks, with the DBT emphasising it takes misuse "seriously" and prioritises tackling anti-social behaviour. The new proposals aim to balance safe celebrations with reduced disruption.
Impact on Pets and Animal Welfare
Owen Sharp, CEO of Dogs Trust, welcomed the consultation, noting that "every year millions of dogs, and the people who care for them, are affected by fireworks." He highlighted that Bonfire Night is particularly distressing for pets. Sharp, who chairs the Fireworks Impact Coalition, referenced the charity's National Dog Survey, which shows "almost half of UK dogs are affected by fireworks, with many owners also experiencing the distress of seeing their dogs frightened and anxious." The trust will submit evidence on responsible firework use.
Proposals Include Review of Banned Products
Beyond restricting loud fireworks, the government plans to review the banned list of pyrotechnic products and consider updates to requirements for lower-risk products. This aims to reduce anti-social behaviour while allowing communities to celebrate safely. The announcement follows consistent complaints about noise from fireworks, which have been linked to fear, sleep disruption, and harm to pets.
