Ban the Use of Private Fireworks in the UK: Restrict Them to Organised Displays Only
The Issue
Ban Private Fireworks in the UK and Restrict Them to Organised Professional Displays
My cat is absolutely terrified of fireworks. Every time they go off, she runs away and hides. It’s heartbreaking to see her so frightened by something she doesn’t even understand.
What makes it worse is that she has no idea when the next one is going to go off. It’s like a waiting game. Just when things go quiet and she starts to settle down, another loud bang echoes through the house, and she’s panicked all over again.
This is not just my story. Many pet owners can relate to the stress and anxiety that fireworks cause to their beloved animals. Cats, dogs and other domestic pets can experience extreme fear from the sudden, unpredictable noises. Some even injure themselves while desperately trying to escape or find somewhere to hide.
The impact isn’t limited to animals. Children, veterans living with PTSD, elderly people and others who are particularly sensitive to sudden loud noises can also experience significant distress. People should be able to feel comfortable and safe in their own homes without having to anticipate unexpected explosions outside.
According to the RSPCA, an estimated 45% of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. Research has also found that fireworks are a significant source of anxiety for cats, with a 2018 PDSA report finding that 34% of cat owners reported their cat was afraid of fireworks. These figures demonstrate that this is far from an isolated problem.
The unpredictable nature of private firework displays makes the situation even worse. Organised displays are advertised in advance, allowing pet owners and vulnerable people to prepare. Private displays, however, can happen at almost any time, often with little or no warning. Fireworks can continue for days or even weeks around major celebrations, leaving people and their pets unable to properly relax.
What needs to change?
The solution is straightforward: restrict the sale and use of fireworks to licensed professional display organisers and companies.
I am calling for:
• A ban on the general public purchasing fireworks for private use.
• Fireworks to only be sold to appropriately licensed professional operators.
• Organised public displays to remain legal, allowing people to continue enjoying fireworks at designated venues and scheduled times.
• Stronger enforcement and penalties for the illegal sale and use of fireworks.
This isn’t about taking away celebrations or banning fireworks entirely. It’s about finding a balance between people’s enjoyment and the wellbeing of everyone else.
People should still be able to enjoy spectacular fireworks displays on Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and other celebrations. However, these displays should be organised, advertised in advance and managed by professionals.
By signing this petition, you are supporting a change that could make a real difference to countless households across the UK.
Our pets deserve to feel safe in their own homes, and people deserve to enjoy peace without the constant uncertainty of unexpected fireworks.
Please sign this petition and help push for a change in how fireworks are sold and used in the UK.
43
The Issue
Ban Private Fireworks in the UK and Restrict Them to Organised Professional Displays
My cat is absolutely terrified of fireworks. Every time they go off, she runs away and hides. It’s heartbreaking to see her so frightened by something she doesn’t even understand.
What makes it worse is that she has no idea when the next one is going to go off. It’s like a waiting game. Just when things go quiet and she starts to settle down, another loud bang echoes through the house, and she’s panicked all over again.
This is not just my story. Many pet owners can relate to the stress and anxiety that fireworks cause to their beloved animals. Cats, dogs and other domestic pets can experience extreme fear from the sudden, unpredictable noises. Some even injure themselves while desperately trying to escape or find somewhere to hide.
The impact isn’t limited to animals. Children, veterans living with PTSD, elderly people and others who are particularly sensitive to sudden loud noises can also experience significant distress. People should be able to feel comfortable and safe in their own homes without having to anticipate unexpected explosions outside.
According to the RSPCA, an estimated 45% of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. Research has also found that fireworks are a significant source of anxiety for cats, with a 2018 PDSA report finding that 34% of cat owners reported their cat was afraid of fireworks. These figures demonstrate that this is far from an isolated problem.
The unpredictable nature of private firework displays makes the situation even worse. Organised displays are advertised in advance, allowing pet owners and vulnerable people to prepare. Private displays, however, can happen at almost any time, often with little or no warning. Fireworks can continue for days or even weeks around major celebrations, leaving people and their pets unable to properly relax.
What needs to change?
The solution is straightforward: restrict the sale and use of fireworks to licensed professional display organisers and companies.
I am calling for:
• A ban on the general public purchasing fireworks for private use.
• Fireworks to only be sold to appropriately licensed professional operators.
• Organised public displays to remain legal, allowing people to continue enjoying fireworks at designated venues and scheduled times.
• Stronger enforcement and penalties for the illegal sale and use of fireworks.
This isn’t about taking away celebrations or banning fireworks entirely. It’s about finding a balance between people’s enjoyment and the wellbeing of everyone else.
People should still be able to enjoy spectacular fireworks displays on Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and other celebrations. However, these displays should be organised, advertised in advance and managed by professionals.
By signing this petition, you are supporting a change that could make a real difference to countless households across the UK.
Our pets deserve to feel safe in their own homes, and people deserve to enjoy peace without the constant uncertainty of unexpected fireworks.
Please sign this petition and help push for a change in how fireworks are sold and used in the UK.
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on 1 November 2026