Stay safe and celebrate responsibly this Bonfire Night
Published on
As Bonfire Night approaches, Walsall Council is reminding residents to celebrate safely, protect their communities, and respect their neighbours, pets, and local environment.
Residents are urged to only buy fireworks from reputable retailers and check that all products carry a CE or UKCA safety mark, along with clear English instructions and identification information. Sparklers must include a warning that they are not suitable for children under five years old.
It is illegal to sell adult fireworks or sparklers to anyone under 18. Retailers must display age restriction notices and are encouraged to operate a Challenge 25 policy, asking anyone who appears under 25 for valid photographic ID.
Walsall Council’s Trading Standards team will be conducting activity to ensure sellers in the borough are following guidelines.
“ Bonfire Night is a time for community and celebration, but it’s also a time to take care.
“Fireworks can frighten pets, disturb vulnerable people, and cause harm if misused.
“We want everyone in Walsall to enjoy the evening safely by following the rules, respecting neighbours, and ensuring only legal, safe fireworks are used. “
Firework safety and noise
By law, residents must not set off fireworks between 11:00pm and 7:00am, except on:
- Bonfire Night: until midnight
- New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year: until 1am
It is also an offence to:
- Use fireworks in a public place (unless part of an authorised event)
- Use Category 4 fireworks (reserved for professional displays)
These offences are enforced by the Police. More information can be found on the West Midlands Police website.
Safe disposal of fireworks
Once the celebrations are over, residents are asked to dispose of fireworks responsibly:
- Soak used fireworks in water overnight to make sure they’re fully extinguished.
- Handle with care — use gloves or tongs to avoid burns or injury.
- Bag and seal them in plastic before placing in your general waste bin.
Never put unused or partially ignited fireworks in your bin.
Event organisers
Under the Licensing Act 2003, the release of fireworks itself does not require a licence. However, if an event includes music, food vendors, or alcohol sales, it may need the appropriate licences to operate legally. These measures ensure public safety and compliance with health regulations.
Report concerns
Anyone who suspects illegal sales, unsafe fireworks, or sales to underage buyers should report it to Walsall Trading Standards through the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
ENDS
