Firework control zone

Local authorities have powers to designate firework control zones under Part 4 of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022. A firework control zone is a designated area within a local authority’s boundary in which it is a criminal offence for a member of the public to ignite a firework. Category F1 fireworks, such as sparklers, are an exception. A firework control zone will not prevent public firework displays by professional fireworks operators or community groups.

A firework control zone may be considered for these reasons:

• misuse of, and anti-social behaviour involving, fireworks
• injuries from fireworks
• animal welfare concerns
• the impact of fireworks on vulnerable groups of people
• environmental protection

The council will work with Police Scotland and other partners to help determine whether a firework control zone is the best approach to address an issue.

The local authority must have regard to Scottish Government guidance on firework control zones when designating a firework control zone. The geographic extent and operational dates of any proposed zone must be proportionate and supported by evidence.

Check these eligibility conditions before starting an application:

• applications must be submitted by community groups, not individuals (this ensures broad community support and representation)
• groups must have at least 25 supporting signatures from individuals:
• for the purposes of this application, a community is defined as a group who share a common aim, interest or purpose (this broad definition allows for various types of community organisations to apply)
• examples of eligible groups include, but not limited to, tenants groups, community associations, welfare groups and Community Councils (other groups that meet the community definition are also encouraged to apply)

If you meet the criteria, complete an application:

Once we have sufficient information, we will seek input from stakeholders, including Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. A report will then be taken to Cabinet. Cabinet will decide whether to take the community request forward.

If Cabinet decides not to take your request forward, you have the right to appeal.

If Cabinet agrees to proceed with the proposal put forward in your community request, the council will develop the proposal and undertake a consultation. Once the consultation responses have been analysed a final decision will be taken on whether or not to designate a firework control zone. The final decision will be publicised at least 60 days before the decision takes effect.

Firework control zones designated in North Ayrshire shall be reviewed at least every three years to evaluate their operation and effectiveness. Reviews will be undertaken in partnership with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and other local stakeholders.

The Firework Control Zone privacy notice document sets out how we use personal information provided when you make a community request for a Firework Control Zone, or respond to a consultation on a proposed zone.