Now the days are growing colder and the nights are getting longer, summer is firmly behind us. But, although we’re getting less use out of our gardens, there’s still one landmark occasion where we can put our outdoor spaces to good use: Bonfire Night.

With fireworks, sparklers and bonfires ready to take centre stage, let’s take a look at how you can make sure your fireworks display ensures the safety of your visitors and doesn’t damage your Indian stone paving.

Which fireworks can you legally let off?

The law states that an adult on private property can set off Category 2 or Category 3 fireworks. However, only licensed professionals can let off category 4 fireworks. This applies to both displays at private properties and organised public fireworks displays.

What time does my fireworks display need to end?

Fireworks displays can be set off on private property between the hours of 7am and 11pm year-round. However, this curfew is extended at certain times of the year. On Bonfire Night, firework displays can continue until midnight. On New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali, they can continue until 1am. Local bylaws may affect these curfews, so it’s worth checking with your local authority in case extra limitations apply in your area.

How do I make sure my fireworks display is legal?

In order for your fireworks display to be legal, you must be over 18. You must also purchase your fireworks from a licensed supplier. You do not need permission from an authority to hold a fireworks display in your own garden, but you do if you intend to set fireworks off in a public place.

If you’re a homeowner, it’s legal to set off fireworks on private land. However, if you’re a tenant, you’ll need to seek permission from your landlord before the display. You won’t want them to find out the other way!

How do I keep visitors and my property safe?

If you’re hosting a fireworks display, that means you’re the one with a duty of care, and the one that the law views as legally responsible for keeping your visitors, your neighbours and their property safe. Before you organise your display, it’s a good idea to check the online guidelines of the RoSPA (Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents) to ensure that you’re aware of all the precautions you’ll need to take. These guidelines include advice on how you can safeguard your own property.

Looking to get your garden ready for your upcoming fireworks display? Here at Bridge Street Stone, we supply the highest quality sandstone paving in the whole of the UK. Our Indian sandstone is imported straight from ethically operated quarries in India, so if you’re looking to give your patio the perfect upgrade this autumn, don’t hesitate to give us a call today on 01282 860571 - our in-house experts are always happy to help!