Urgent New Year’s Eve warning issued to avoid £5,000 fine

As we prepare for our celebrations to enter the New Year, many of us will be planning to light fireworks because what is New Year without them?

However, if you are planning to set off some fireworks or have a display, then it’s important to be aware of this common mistake and avoid having to pay a fine of a hefty £5,000.

Fireworks must be finished by 1am, as any noise after that hour is deemed the “unsociable hours” under the Environment Protection Act 1990.

The act recognises night hours as any time between 11pm and 7am, and so during those hours, loud noises are required to be kept at a minimum.

However, on New Year’s Eve, those who host fireworks displays are allowed to do so until 1am.

Anyone who lets them off past that time can risk receiving a warning from their local council or, in some cases, even be hit with a Noise Abatement Notice – a legal order served by a local authority to anyone who is creating a noise nuisance.

If they are ignored, you could be fined up to a whopping £5,000, not something you want to enter 2025 with.

Rob Price, Head of Litigation Department at HCB Solicitors, emphasised that it is “essential to balance celebration with consideration for your neighbours”

He added: “Loud noise during unsociable hours can all lead to legal issues. By being mindful of these regulations and showing respect for your community, you can ensure your New Year celebrations are both enjoyable and fine-free.”

The rules are not only applicable for New Year’s Eve celebrations but apply all year round. For example, if you plan to host any kind of party or get together with loud music, the volume should be reduced after 11pm.

If you do not comply with the rules, your neighbours could report you to the council or local authorities. For any parties being hosted from January 1, fireworks must stop and loud noise must be reduced by 11pm.

It is also worth checking your tenancy agreements on any rules surrounding fireworks, as many ban the use of it as well as letting your neighbours know if you do plan on holding a display.