Community groups in Edinburgh can now apply to have a Firework Control Zone (FCZ) in their local area.
The Scottish Government has brought into place powers for local authorities to implement FCZs, under the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022.
A FCZ is a specified area within a local authority. Under the legislation it is a criminal offence for a member of the public to use a firework within a FCZ. Organised public displays will still be permitted.
Communities can ask for a FCZ to be considered for the following reasons: misuse of fireworks, injuries from fireworks, impact on vulnerable groups, environmental protection, and animal welfare.
To apply please email fireworkscontrolzone@edinburgh.gov.uk for an application pack. Full guidance for applications is available on our website.
Community groups have until June 30, 2024, to submit their FCZ applications.
Applications will then be reviewed by the Council in conjunction with Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Following these reviews, there will then be a community consultation period within the proposed areas. The full decision list on FCZs in Edinburgh is due to be announced in October 2024.
For any questions on FCZs please contact: fireworkscontrolzone@edinburgh.gov.uk
Council Leader Cammy Day said:
I’m really pleased that we’re reaching the next stage in implementing Fireworks Control Zones here in Edinburgh. We all remember vividly the shocking and unprecedented scenes we saw in Niddrie last year with emergency services being attacked and I’m determined to do everything within our power to prevent similar occurrences this November.
Whilst these powers from the Scottish Government are welcome, I’ve been clear that we need to go further on the issue of fireworks and ban their public sale, such is the current risk to public safety and order. Alongside these measures, it’s more important than ever that we supplement these new powers with our ongoing community work. Over the coming months with our partners, we’ll be undertaking targeted engagement and intervention work in our schools, youth associations and wider communities.