Bonfires and fireworks

You play a key role in keeping young people safe. By selling fireworks responsibly, you help prevent injuries and reduce the number of fireworks being set off in the street. This page explains what we check, what the law expects from you, and how to report concerns.

Your responsibilities as a firework retailer

If you sell fireworks in South Lanarkshire, you need to hold a current fireworks licence. Our Trading Standards team will visit your shop. We check that you follow the rules on:

• storing fireworks safely
• selling only to people aged 18 or over
• keeping fireworks secure and out of reach of children

These rules come from the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2010 and the Fireworks Regulations 2004.

During a visit, we give clear advice to help you meet your legal duties. If you ignore the rules or put people at risk, we may take enforcement action.

Licensing and storage

We can refuse or remove your licence or registration if:

• we believe you are not fit to hold a licence
• your storage area is unsafe or unsuitable

If this happens, we will explain why and what you need to do next.

Applying for a licence

To apply for a licence please see the Fireworks licence page.

Report a concern

If you think a shop is selling fireworks illegally or storing them unsafely, please contact Consumer and Trading Standards. Your report helps us keep the community safe.