Following a decision at the special meeting of the Culture and Communities Committee on 23 August 2024, councillors approved to implement Firework Control Zones (FCZ) in these areas:
- Balerno
- Calton Hill
- Niddrie
- Seafield.
The Firework Control Zones will be for a set period between 1 November to 10 November 2024 only.
You can download the decision report which is being published as required by Section 29 Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022. Read more about the decision.
About firework control zones and the legislation
The gives councils power to introduce Firework Control Zones (FCZ). We will use FCZs along with other measures to support the safe use of fireworks. Currently we tackle issues involving fireworks by
- raise awareness within local communities by carrying out effective early intervention and prevention with families.
- engaging with young people in schools, through our local partnership approach with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and Police Scotland.
- engaging with young people using diversionary activities
- working with Police Scotland who carry out enforcement activities.
Before a FCZ can be agreed or if a FCZ needs to be amended or revoked we must consult with
- people who live or work in the proposed zone
- other members of the local community in or near the proposed zone.
- other persons or bodies of interest that the local authority considers having a connection with the proposed zone.
Exemptions within a FCZ include
- public firework displays, subject to certain requirements
- the use of certain fireworks designated as being grade F1.
An FCZ can be considered for the following reasons:
- misuse of fireworks/injuries
- impact on vulnerable groups
- environmental protection
- animal welfare.
Once an FCZ has been agreed, Police Scotland will look to enforce any offences under the .
The UK Firework Review is a full of tips, advice and informative articles about having safe and successful firework displays.
Applying for a FCZ
Communities can apply to set up a FCZ. A community is any group of people who feel they have something in common. In many cases they may live in the same area. A community request cannot be made by one person. Examples of communities are
- community councils
- resident groups
- stakeholders within the local community.
Please email is for an application pack or if you have any questions
fireworkscontrolzone@edinburgh.gov.uk
We will be accepting applications from 6 May until 30 June. This will then rigorously be assessed and evaluated by the Council, fire, and police services before a FCZ will be considered.
In the future we will create a process for community requests. This will give communities a way to ask us to consider whether a zone should be agreed, amended, or revoked.
Complaints about antisocial behaviour with fireworks
Call Police Scotland on 101 to make a complaint about antisocial behaviour related to fireworks. They will use this information to identify what needs to be looked into. They will also link in with our Family and Household Support Teams with regards to any antisocial behaviour. You can contact your local team if you need more information:
South West Team
Call 0131 469 5150
Email southwestFHS@edinburgh.gov.uk
South East Team
Call 0131 529 5123
Email southeastFHS@edinburgh.gov.uk
North West Team
Call 0131 529 5014
Email northwestFHS@edinburgh.gov.uk
North East Team
Call 0131 529 7168
Email northeastFHS@edinburgh.gov.uk
Concerns about selling fireworks
If you have concerns about someone selling fireworks, then please contact Trading Standards. Call us on 0131 608 1100 or email trading.standards@edinburgh.gov.uk.