Exeter residents have been asked to have their say in a major government review of fireworks legislation that could see the loudest pyrotechnics restricted to professional displays. The 12‑week consultation, launched this month, will feed into the most substantial rewrite of UK fireworks law since its introduction, and Exeter’s Labour MP Steve Race is urging constituents to respond.
Concerns raised by local people
The call follows months of correspondence to the MP from people in the city who say anti‑social firework use is causing distress. Those mentioned specifically include military veterans, pet owners and people with neurodiversity — groups that can be particularly affected by sudden loud noises. Residents have also expressed frustration about debris left behind in parks and play areas after displays.
“Anti‑social firework use is an issue that constituents regularly raise with me. I know how disruptive unexpected displays can be to people’s sleep, particularly parents trying to get young children to bed, and how difficult it can be for some neurodiverse people and those living with mental health conditions that are exacerbated by sudden noise,”
Mr Race told NEXO RADAR he has heard from pet owners who struggle to manage animals’ stress indoors and fear for their safety when fireworks are let off outside. He emphasised that while many enjoy public displays such as New Year and Diwali, the views of people harmed by unregulated, noisy fireworks must also be considered.
What the review could change
Officials say the review may consider options including restricting the noisiest fireworks to professionally organised displays and increasing the number of banned pyrotechnic items. The government frames the consultation as part of wider efforts to tackle anti‑social behaviour and make communities safer.
Local voices and community groups are therefore likely to influence the shape of any future rules. Suggested voluntary measures already being discussed locally include using quieter fireworks, encouraging attendance at organised displays, and concentrating public use on key dates so people and animals can prepare.
- Who is being encouraged to respond: veterans, pet owners, families, people with neurodiversity, and anyone affected by firework noise or debris.
- Length of consultation: 12 weeks.
- Potential outcomes: limit noisy fireworks to professional displays; ban more pyrotechnics; promote quieter alternatives.
| Issue | Raised by |
|---|---|
| Distress from sudden noise | Veterans, neurodiverse people, parents |
| Pets' stress and safety concerns | Pet owners |
| Debris in parks and play areas | Local residents |
Local context and consequences
Exeter is a city where communal events and quiet neighbourhoods coexist — from organised winter displays to children’s play in local parks. Any change to fireworks law could affect the way celebratory events are held here, potentially shifting more spectators toward professionally organised displays and reducing spontaneous private use. That would alter costs and logistics for community groups and event organisers, while also offering respite to those who find unexpected noise distressing.
For many, the question is about balance: protecting cherished public traditions while reducing harm from inconsiderate use. Mr Race has been clear that he does not wish to penalise the majority who use fireworks responsibly, but wants to ensure policy addresses the disruptive minority.
Residents who feel strongly either way are encouraged to participate in the consultation while it is open. Local community groups, veterans’ organisations, animal welfare charities and parent networks in Exeter may wish to coordinate responses to ensure their concerns and practical suggestions are heard in the shaping of future rules.
The outcome of the review could have consequences for future events, public safety guidance and the standard of firework products available for sale. With the consultation underway, Exeter’s voice will be one of many across the country influencing what may become the next chapter of fireworks regulation in the UK.
