Anyone intending to buy, possess or use fireworks in Northern Ireland this Halloween should apply now for a licence, the Justice Minister has said. The Department of Justice must receive applications for Halloween-period use no later than 16 October 2026.

The Minister is also asking the public to be mindful of the firework safety code and to think about how noise can affect older people, those with health conditions, and pets.

The Minister said: "The law states that if you wish to purchase, possess or use fireworks, a licence is required. It is an offence to buy or be in possession of fireworks without one. The Department will process applications as quickly as possible, although I would ask anyone wishing to obtain a licence to apply in good time.

"Fireworks must be purchased from a supplier who has been registered by the Department of Justice. Don't be tempted to buy from illegal sources as the fireworks may not be safe and you could face prosecution. Registered retailers should be easily identified as they must display their licence or certificate of registration prominently at the point of sale."

Application forms and a list of registered firework retailers are available via NIDirect: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/fireworks.

Information about the illegal sale or misuse of fireworks should be reported to the PSNI on 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Most organised displays pass without incident, but each year some people are injured due to incorrect use. The firework safety code can be found on the NI Direct website. The Minister added: "I am asking people to be responsible and follow the firework safety code to avoid firework related injuries. I know many families look forward to Halloween. It should be an enjoyable time and it's important that parents and others organising events are aware of the risks, particularly for children and young people."

She also highlighted the need to show consideration when planning displays.

She said: "Fireworks play an important role in many celebrations, community events and personal milestones throughout the year, and are enjoyed responsibly by the vast majority of people. However, I recognise that views on their use vary considerably. Many people have expressed serious concerns about the noise, safety risks and distress that fireworks can cause, to vulnerable members of the community and to animals, particularly when set off unpredictably in residential areas.

"Please be mindful of the impact that fireworks can have. Low-noise fireworks are available and making a simple change could help make Halloween more enjoyable for your neighbours and cause less distress to animals."

Separately, the UK Government is consulting on potential reforms to fireworks and pyrotechnics legislation, including proposals to reduce the maximum noise level of consumer fireworks, assess whether additional high-risk products should be banned from public sale, and review the regulatory approach for lower-risk pyrotechnics. The consultation is open until 7 October 2026: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/fireworks-and-pyrotechnics-in-the-uk