New Year’s Eve error that could land you with a £5,000 fine
HOUSEHOLDS celebrating 2025 should be aware of a common error which could land them with a £5,000 fine.
With just hours to go before Brits ring in the New Year, many will be thinking of lighting fireworks to celebrate.
But if you have plans to host a firework display then you need to finish up by 1am or you could risk being fined thousands of pounds.
That's because noise beyond this hour falls within “unsociable hours," under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
This act usually defines night hours as 11pm to 7am and during this time loud noises must be kept to a minimum.
However, on New Year's Eve, the hours during which fireworks can be let off is extended to 1am.
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Failure to comply with these rules can lead to a warning from your local council.
And in some cases, you could be slapped with a Noise Abatement Notice.
This is a legal order that a local authority such as the council serves to someone who is creating a noise nuisance.
It is worth noting that if these are ignored you could be fined up to £5,000.
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Rob Price, Head of Litigation Department at HCB Solicitors said it’s "essential to balance celebration with consideration for your neighbours".
He added: “Loud noise during unsociable hours can all lead to legal issues.
"By being mindful of these regulations and showing respect for your community, you can ensure your New Year celebrations are both enjoyable and fine-free.”
You should also be aware that these rules apply all year round not only New Year's Eve.
So if you are planning a party or any kind of gathering loud music should be turned down after 11pm.
Your neighbours can also report you to the council or local authorities if you do not comply with these regulations.
Its also worth noting that if you plan to host any New Year parties from January 1st any loud noises or fireworks must be wrapped up by 11pm.
Tenancy agreements often prohibit bonfires or fireworks, so also check your agreement or ask your landlord if you are unsure.
FIREWORK RULES UK
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.
The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.
You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:
- Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
- New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am
Check with your council to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks.
It is legal for a landlord to ban the use of fireworks in a tenancy agreement.
Your agreement may also state that you must not engage in antisocial behaviour or cause noise pollution, which may include letting off fireworks.
It is, therefore, a good idea to check with your landlord and neighbours if you plan to hold a fireworks display.
How to let off fireworks safely
The London Fire Brigade has the following advice on letting off fireworks safely:
- Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
- Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
- Light the firework at arm's length with a taper (a long stick that's often included in the box with fireworks) and stand well back
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit
- Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
- Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of emergency
Easy mistakes that could see you get fined
Did you know getting rid of your Christmas tree the wrong way could land you with a huge fine or even a trip to court.
Make sure that you have a plan for how you will dispose of your Christmas tree to avoid being slapped with a hefty fine.
In South Norfolk, residents were warned last year that they could be fined up to £5,000 if they give their waste to an unauthorised person who illegally dumps it.
Meanwhile, in previous years North Herts Council has issued fixed penalty notices of £75 for littering and £400 for fly-tipping.
Wakefield Council will also charge fly-tippers up to £250.
You can take your tree to the local recycling centre where it can be turned into chippings for paths or made into soil.
Some councils will also collect your Christmas tree and dispose of it for free.
Meanwhile, breaking bin collecting rules could see you slapped with a fine of £400.
Local councils will differ on which day they will collect your bins because it depends on when staff will be working.
You should have been notified about when your bins will be collected over the festive period.
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If you are unsure then get in touch with your local council.
You can check out our full list of fines to beware of here.