Tipperary residents urged to review the rules around fireworks ahead of Halloween
Tipperary Citizens Information Service has outlined some important information
With Halloween celebrations taking place across Tipperary this weekend, residents are being reminded to familiarise themselves with the rules surrounding fireworks. Tipperary Citizens Information Service has outlined what members of the public can legally buy and use, the penalties for possessing or setting off unlicensed fireworks and what to do if fireworks are being used in their area.
The law on fireworks.
As we approach the Halloween weekend, Tipperary Citizens Information Service is reminding the public of the law around the use of fireworks.
Can I buy fireworks for Halloween?
Most fireworks can only be bought and used by professional or licenced operators. You need a licence to import fireworks to Ireland. Only the least dangerous fireworks can be sold to the public.
What fireworks can I buy?
You can buy and use category F1 fireworks. These are the least dangerous, make very little noise, and can be used in a limited space (including indoors). F1 fireworks include party poppers, ground spinners, Christmas crackers and some sparklers.
What about bangers or rockets?
Bangers, rockets, roman candles, aerial wheels and other more dangerous fireworks are not Category F1 fireworks. It is illegal for the public to import, possess or use them.
If you want to organise a display of these types of fireworks, you must use a professional fireworks operator. It is an offence to:
• Light an unlicensed firework
• Have an unlicensed firework
• Have an unlicensed firework with the intention of selling it or giving it to someone else
• Throw a lit firework at a person or property (except Category F1 fireworks)
What if I use unlicensed fireworks anyway?
The Gardaí can arrest you without a warrant if they suspect you have committed one of these offences.
If you’re found guilty of any of these offences, you could face either:
A class C fine, or a prison sentence of up to 6 months, or both (in the District Court)
A maximum fine of €10,000, or a prison sentence of up to 5 years, or both (in the Circuit Court)
What can I do if fireworks are being set off in my area?
If you are concerned about fireworks being set off where you live, you can report it to the Gardaí. You should phone your local Garda station, or call the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111.
Read more about the law on fireworks on the Citizens Information website, at https://bit.ly/Fireworks_thelaw, or call into any of our centres in Tipperary located in Clonmel(Tower House, The Quays), Nenagh(Pearse St), Roscrea(Rosemary St), Thurles(Slievenamon Rd) & Tipperary Town(St. Michael’s St).