Firework Control Zones

Communities in Fife will soon be able to ask for local Firework Control Zones to be established after Fife Council’s Cabinet agreed how the process will be carried out.

Under the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022, local authorities can now designate a specific area as a Firework Control Zone (FCZ). Within these zones it would be a criminal offence for a member of the public to set off fireworks, including on private property such as a garden.

Community groups and organisations, as well as individuals will be able to submit proposals for a FCZ and if the request is taken forward the wider public in the area would be fully consulted.

Cllr David Ross, Cabinet Convenor and Leader of Fife Council, said: “Unlike some areas in Scotland, we have had very few complaints around the unacceptable use of fireworks and Fife has a number of well-established, well-run and well-attended fireworks displays. These will not be affected by this new legislation.

“We do know, however, that for some individuals and most animals, fireworks can be really stressful and highly dangerous, especially if they are let off with no advance warning in residential areas. This process will give our communities a greater say on how and when fireworks are used, while still allowing people to celebrate events like Guy Fawkes Night in a safe and enjoyable way.”

In Fife, the decision to create an FCZ will be taken by the local authority, following formal consultation with local community safety partners on an evidence based and proportionate basis.  Once any firework control zone has been authorised, responsibility for enforcement falls to Police Scotland.

Joan Lamie, Service Manager for Housing Estates and Safer Communities, said: “We are currently setting up an online application process and we’ll publicise this and other details of how communities can get involved in due course.

“We want to make the public aware of this now as there’s a long process involved in agreeing a FCZ. From start to finish it can take at least eight months to agree a proposal, as we need to carry out a full 12 weeks of public consultation as part of the process.

“Full details on exemptions, who can apply and how, will be advertised as soon as possible.”