Fireworks bill proposes new criminal offences

The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill provides for tougher action on the sale and use of fireworks and the misuse of pyrotechnics. The bill follows the report of an independent Firework Review Group which recommended tightening legislation to reduce the harm fireworks can cause.

An analysis of the public consultation, published in December 2021, showed strong support for key measures in the bill amongst those who responded.

The bill’s proposals include:

• the introduction of a fireworks licensing system
• a new power for local authorities to designate firework control zones, where it is not permitted for the public to use fireworks
• restricting the days fireworks can be sold to and used by the general public
• a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks and pyrotechnics to under-18s to ensure adults do not purchase such products on behalf of children
• a new offence of being in possession of a pyrotechnic while at, or travelling to, certain places or events, without reasonable excuse

Community safety minister Ash Regan said: “This bill will ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.

“We have undertaken a significant programme of engagement and evidence gathering which has demonstrated strong public support for tougher action.

“We have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public - as well as the times fireworks can be set off.

“This bill demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.”

Clinical research fellow at the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Canniesburn Department of Plastic Surgery Eleanor Robertson said: “We are delighted this bill is being introduced. Firework safety campaigns raise awareness of the hazards and provide risk-reduction strategies, but pediatrics and adult patients continue to present with severe hand and eye injuries. We believe the proposed legislation will substantially reduce both direct and indirect harm from fireworks.”