West Yorkshire Trading Standards is urging residents to buy fireworks safely and reminding retailers of strict age restrictions ahead of Bonfire Night and Diwali celebrations. Businesses selling fireworks illegally could face fines of up to £5,000.
Residents across West Yorkshire are being urged to stay safe during the fireworks season as Trading Standards launches a campaign targeting illegal sales and the misuse of fireworks.
The warning comes as the seasonal fireworks sales period begins, ahead of Bonfire Night and Diwali celebrations.
West Yorkshire Trading Standards is reminding retailers that fireworks must be sold responsibly and that strict rules apply to the sale of age-restricted products.
Category F2 and F3 fireworks can only be sold to people aged 18 and over, while Category F1 fireworks, including certain sparklers, are restricted to those aged 16 and over.
Most retailers licensed to sell fireworks can only do so during specific periods of the year, including 15 October to 10 November.
Additional permitted sales periods include the days leading up to Diwali, Chinese New Year and New Year's Eve. Businesses wishing to sell fireworks throughout the year must hold the appropriate licence.
Trading Standards is also warning that several types of fireworks are prohibited from being supplied to the general public, including bangers, mini rockets, air bombs and certain professional display fireworks.
Retailers who breach fireworks legislation could face fines of up to £5,000 and up to six months in prison.
Advice for residents
Trading Standards is encouraging people to purchase fireworks only from licensed retailers and avoid buying products from unregulated sellers, including those operating through social media, on the street or from vehicles.
Consumers should also check that fireworks are supplied in their original packaging and carry the required safety markings, including BS EN 15947 and either a CE or UKCA mark.
Officials say fireworks can provide enjoyment for families and communities, but irresponsible use can cause serious injuries, antisocial behaviour and distress to vulnerable residents.
Enforcement ahead of Bonfire Night
West Yorkshire Trading Standards officers will work alongside West Yorkshire Police and West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to identify retailers selling unsafe or prohibited fireworks, particularly those supplying products to children.
Councillor Michael Livsey, Chair of the West Yorkshire Joint Services Committee, said businesses have a responsibility to ensure fireworks are safe and sold only to people legally old enough to purchase them.
He warned that irresponsible use of fireworks by children who obtain them illegally can contribute to antisocial behaviour and safety concerns.
Linda Davis, Head of Trading Standards (Protecting Communities) for West Yorkshire, also stressed the importance of age verification.
She said retailers must check customers' ages whenever there is uncertainty and encouraged members of the public to report suspected illegal sales.
Anyone concerned about unsafe fireworks or illegal trading practices can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.
Reports can be made anonymously.
Source: West Yorkshire Trading Standards / Calderdale Council, 16 October 2026.
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