11/09/2023

Firework Display Organisers Urged To Submit Licence Applications

Anyone planning a fireworks display this Halloween have been urged to apply for a licence "in good time".

It is an offence to buy or be in possession of fireworks without a licence and applications for the Halloween period must received by the Department of Justice by close of play on Friday 20 October 2023.

Fireworks must be purchased from a retailer who has been registered by the Department of Justice. Fireworks bought from illegal sources may result in prosecution and the fireworks may not be safe.

Richard Pengelly CB, Permanent Secretary, Department of Justice said: "We would like everyone who is planning to use fireworks to celebrate Halloween to have a safe, enjoyable event. So please make sure you get a licence to stay within the law. Many people enjoy fireworks, however others do not, so it is important to be considerate of the needs of others and enjoy fireworks responsibly."

Fireworks can cause distress to vulnerable people across our communities, some family pets and farm animals can be adversely affected, so please consider the alternative of low noise fireworks.

Licence applications and a list of registered firework retailers licensed to sell fireworks are available on the NIDirect website.

Anyone who has information about the illegal sale and use of fireworks should contact the PSNI or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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