Rules and laws surrounding fireworks and bonfires you need to know before November 5

Bonfire Night is just around the corner and although many of us are excited to celebrate this year - we must also be mindful of what laws are in place surrounding November 5.

Last year, the UK was under its second lockdown, squashing any chance of celebration.

Now that restrictions are lifted in the UK, it is likely people will flock to events and others may stay home, GloucestershireLive reports.

There are many laws surrounding the use of fireworks, or lighting a bonfire, on your own land.

Here are all the rules and regulations that you need to know about fireworks and bonfires.

Last year on November 5, the UK was in its second lockdown (Getty Images)

Letting off fireworks:

You cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18, and it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions.

For Bonfire night - the cut off is midnight.

Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks - they do not include things like party poppers.

Category 4 fireworks can not be purchased by the general public and can only be used by professionals.

You cannot set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

It is also important to check what fireworks you are allowed to buy and set off (Getty Images)

The law on lighting bonfires:

There are no laws against lighting a bonfire in your garden, but there are laws about causing a nuisance for your neighbours.

There are a few things you should consider if you plan on lighting a bonfire this year.

Legally, you can light your bonfire any time or day or night, but it is common courtesy to plan it so it finishes burning at dusk.

Letting your neighbours know when you plan on lighting your bonfire is also polite as it can allow them to plan what washing they may leave out or how they plan to use their garden that day.

If you do decide to light a bonfire, then try to avoid burning wet or green matter because it will cause excess smoke.

Contact your local council to find out how to get rid of it or you can always compost it as well.

Furthermore, most councils prohibit burning straw or hay so avoid using that as part of your bonfire.

You should also avoid burning rubber, or plastic because it violates environmental protection laws.

You should also be aware it is against the law to have smoke drift onto a public highway. You could be fined £5,000 if this happens.

If you plan on lighting a bonfire this Guy Fawkes' Day just make sure you speak to your neighbours and local fire authority about it.