The Countryside Alliance has welcomed proposals to strengthen regulations that govern fireworks, calling for measures to remain proportionate, evidence-based and focused on tackling irresponsible and antisocial use.

Responding to the government’s consultation on fireworks and pyrotechnics, the Alliance has highlighted the particular concerns that fireworks can create in rural areas. Unexpected displays can cause distress to livestock, horses, pets and wildlife, as well as posing a fire risk to thatched properties, other buildings and crops.

The Alliance recognises the importance of fireworks to national, cultural and family celebrations and does not support unnecessary restrictions on responsible use. Without clear evidence of risk, particular types of fireworks should not be prohibited from sale to the public beyond those that are already restricted to professional use. Instead, the government should prioritise effective enforcement against illegal and antisocial use, which the public identifies as a greater concern.

We agree, however, that the law should make clear that fireworks comprising more than one shot tube are prohibited from public sale, provided the change is intended to clarify rather than substantially extend the existing law. Clearer legislation should help consumers, retailers and enforcement authorities understand the rules and improve consistency in enforcement.

Most significantly for rural communities, the Alliance supports reducing the maximum permitted noise level of consumer fireworks. The proposed options would see a reduction in perceived noise by at least 50%. Noise from fireworks is a major source of concern, particularly because of its impact on animals. The government’s 2025 survey found that 88% of people who did not enjoy fireworks cited noise, while 91% of those who disliked firework noise identified its impact on animals as a reason.

Quieter fireworks could therefore reduce unnecessary distress to livestock, horses, pets and wildlife, particularly where private displays take place without warning. However, noise reduction alone will not solve the problems caused by irresponsible use, and excessively restrictive noise limits could diminish the enjoyment of responsible consumers and affect product availability and prices.

We have also urged the government to ensure that any future changes do not compromise farmers’ ability to use bird scarers as a non-lethal means of protecting crops and supported removing the age restriction for purchasing Christmas crackers.

This consultation presents the government with an opportunity to strike the right balance: reducing unnecessary harm and disturbance while preserving the responsible enjoyment of fireworks. The priority should be proportionate regulation, clearer rules and, crucially, effective enforcement against the antisocial use that causes the greatest problems for communities.

The consultation closes on 7 October and you can read our full response to the consultation here.