Home / Environment / UK Considers Banning Loudest Fireworks to Protect Animals and Veterans
UK Considers Banning Loudest Fireworks to Protect Animals and Veterans
4 Nov
Summary
- Petition to limit fireworks noise to 90 decibels gains over 100,000 signatures
- RSPCA says animals "endure terror" from loud fireworks each year
- Government acknowledges concerns but defends fireworks as a source of enjoyment
As of November 4th, 2025, a major push to ban the loudest fireworks in the UK has taken a significant step forward. Campaigners have successfully forced a debate in Parliament, as pet owners and animal welfare groups try to get the government to impose stricter noise limits on consumer fireworks.
The petition on the Parliament website, which has now surpassed 109,094 signatures, is calling for the law to be changed to ban anything that explodes louder than 90 decibels. Campaigners argue that the current 120-decibel limit for consumer fireworks is causing immense distress to animals, with over half of dog owners reporting fireworks-related anxiety in their pets and an 81% increase in missing dogs around Bonfire Night. The RSPCA has also been pressing for a change in the law, stating that animals "endure terror" each year due to the noise.
While the government acknowledges the concerns raised, it has defended the use of fireworks, stating that they are a "source of enjoyment for many people" when used responsibly. The Department for Business and Trade has also noted that many retailers already offer "lower noise" and "no bang" fireworks as alternatives. However, the petition's success in reaching the 100,000-signature threshold means that MPs will now be required to debate the issue, putting pressure on the government to consider potential changes to the law.
