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 (except for category F1 fireworks, such as sparklers, which are permitted). Note that a Firework Control Zone will not prevent public firework displays by professional fireworks operators or community groups.
There are a number of different reasons why a Firework Control Zone may be considered, including:
- misuse of fireworks 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 likely to be the best approach to a specific firework issue or if alternative approaches may be more effective.
The local authority must have regard to the Scottish Government’s Guidance on Firework Control Zones when designating a Firework Control Zone. The geographic extent and operational dates of any proposed Firework Control Zone must be proportionate and supported by evidence.
Communities can request that a Firework Control Zone be designated in North Ayrshire. You do not need to be a formally constituted community group to make a request. A community can be any group of people who feel they have something in common.
The council is currently developing an application form to make it easier to make a community request. If you wish to make a community request in the meantime, please email safetyadvisorygroup@north-ayrshire.gov.uk stating what community you represent and why you feel that a Firework Control Zone is required. Please also attach any evidence you have to support your request, if available. We may contact you to discuss your application or to request further information.
Once sufficient information has been provided, we will seek input on the request from relevant stakeholders, including Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. A report will then be taken to Cabinet, who 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.
Any 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, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and other local stakeholders.
If you have any questions about Firework Control Zones, please email safetyadvisorygroup@north-ayrshire.gov.uk.