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Firework control zones in Renfrewshire

What a firework control zone is

A firework control zone (FCZ) is a defined geographical area in which it is illegal to use fireworks on private domestic property.  

The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022 introduced a discretionary power for councils to designate firework control zones, where there is evidence that this can resolve a problem.

Zones are designed to reduce harm caused by fireworks, such as:

  • noise and disruption
  • distress to animals
  • impact on vulnerable people
  • anti-social behaviour
  • environmental damage.

Residents and community groups can apply to have a zone in their area.

Zones must be evidence-based, limited solely to areas, dates and times where it can make a difference, and subject to an extensive consultation process outlined in the Guidance on Firework control zones for Local Authorities (Scottish Government). 

Renfrewshire Council is responsible for establishing zones after an application has been accepted. 

Breaches of an established zone are enforced by Police Scotland.

What a firework control zone can do

A firework control zone can:

  • ban fireworks in gardens and private spaces
  • let communities request zones
  • apply rules to specific areas and times
  • help tackle social problems
  • make illegal use a criminal offence.

A firework control zone cannot:

  • ban organised public displays, such as weddings or council events
  • stop shops from selling fireworks
  • cover large areas, like whole towns
  • stop bonfires or noise from travelling
  • be used as a quick fix or first option.

Before you apply

Who can apply

You can apply if you're part of a:

  • community group (with at least 25 signatures)
  • welfare or support organisation
  • Community Council
  • Local Partnership Area

When to apply

Applications are open from 17 November 2025 to 30 January 2026.

What to include

Your request should explain:

  • what the problem is (things such as noise, safety, animal distress)
  • where the zone should be
  • when it should start and end.

How to apply

Apply online

Other ways to apply

You can email us on ts.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk to request a paper version.

After you’ve applied

Your application will be reviewed within 4 weeks. If it can proceed to the next stage, we'll ask you for supporting evidence.

The evidence provided must be provable. You can read details about what is considered as relevant evidence in the Guidance on Firework control zones for Local Authorities (Scottish Government)

The stages of the process are:

  1. Review panel - in early March, a team from the council and partner organisations will look at all evidenced requests. If your request is rejected, you'll get feedback - and you won't be able to reapply for the same area for 12 months.
  2. Consultation - if your request is accepted, we'll run a public consultation from late April to late July. We'll ask people who live or work in the area, nearby communities, and relevant organisations for their views.
  3. Decision - we'll publish the final decision by 15 August. If approved, the zone will come into force by 15 October.

Enforcement

Police Scotland will enforce the rules in any approved zones. Breaking the rules could lead to a fine or prosecution.

Renfrewshire Council's current position

Renfrewshire Council has agreed to use firework control zone powers.

To date, no requests received have met the criteria.