Fireworks – NFU calls for stronger protections for livestock and rural businesses
Photograph: istockphoto
The NFU has responded to the Department for Business and Trade’s consultation reviewing rules on fireworks and pyrotechnics in the UK.
The NFU supports proportionate reforms to reduce the impact of fireworks on livestock, horses, working animals and rural communities.
Reducing noise
The consultation focuses on reducing noise from consumer fireworks.
The NFU supports lowering the maximum permitted noise level and encouraging the development of quieter fireworks, arguing that sudden explosive noise is one of the main causes of stress, injury and welfare concerns in livestock.
Professional vs private displays
The NFU also supports retaining a distinction between professional organised displays and private consumer use.
While organised displays can still affect neighbouring farms, they are generally planned and publicised, allowing livestock keepers to take steps to protect animals.
Unannounced private displays remain a particular concern, especially when held close to fields, livestock housing and farm buildings.
The NFU is calling for:
- Reduced noise levels
- Advance notification of displays
- Recognition of fire and animal welfare risk faced by agricultural businesses
- A balanced, risk-based approach to protect rural businesses and traditional celebrations
Advance notification needed
In its response, the NFU highlights members’ experiences of livestock becoming distressed following nearby fireworks, including cattle, sheep and pigs being affected by sudden and unexpected displays.
We are calling for greater awareness of the importance of advance notification to neighbouring livestock keepers.
Fire risks must be recognised
Alongside animal welfare concerns, the NFU wants greater recognition of the fire risks posed by fireworks in rural areas.
Our response notes that fireworks can ignite standing crops, straw and farm buildings, particularly during dry summer conditions.
One member reported losing around four acres of wheat after a firework landed in a standing crop during harvest.
Regulations must include consideration for agriculture
The NFU is asking government to ensure that any future regulations explicitly consider the welfare of farm animals and the risks faced by agricultural businesses.
Balanced approach favoured
While supporting stronger controls on noise and misuse, the NFU does not support a complete ban on consumer fireworks, favouring a balanced, risk-based approach that protects both rural communities and traditional celebrations.
