SCOTS could require a fireworks licence and face a pyrotechnics ban for most of the year under new plans.
A bill has been published which would introduce a licensing system for firework sales.
The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill would make it a criminal offence to buy, possess or use fireworks without a licence, with offenders facing fines or up to six months in prison.
The law also limits the use of fireworks to certain holidays and festivals including Hogmanay, Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali, Vaisakhi and Chinese New Year.
READ MORE: 'National disgrace': Michael Gove TV interview disrupted with devastating assessment
A consultation carried out last year found support for the creation of the new offence.
The bill also gives local councils the power to impose “firework control zones” where further restrictions are in place, though professional displays may still be allowed.
Community safety minister Ash Regan said: “This bill will ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.
“We have undertaken a significant programme of engagement and evidence gathering which has demonstrated strong public support for tougher action.
“We have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.
“This bill demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.”
READ MORE: Don't believe the Twitter trolls: Belgium has not announced a new ferry link with Scotland
Senior officers from the police and fire services said they support the bill’s publication.
Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Linda Jones said: “Pyrotechnics in the wrong hands can be lethal.
“They are inherently dangerous and their ongoing misuse is a matter of serious concern to Police Scotland.
“This is not only due to the risks faced by those who may discharge them, but to those around them.
“There is no safe way to operate pyrotechnics unless you are properly trained – leave it to the experts at organised events.”
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel