Fireworks noise: the rules and how to report it
Last checked: 11 November 2026
Fireworks frighten pets, wake children and upset people who are unwell, at any time of day. The people.uk app makes reporting them take a few taps. This guide explains who gets told, and how to do it yourself where the app is not available yet.
The people.uk app does this for you. It is a free app that writes your noise report and addresses it to your council, councillors, MP and local police, all at once. You check it and tap Send.
The app is starting with one small part of Tower Hamlets in east London. If it does not cover your street yet, the rest of this page explains how to report noise yourself.
Report it every time
If fireworks disturb you, report them. It does not matter what time it is or what day it is.
A firework at five in the afternoon frightens a dog just as much as one at midnight. It wakes a baby or a night-shift worker just the same.
Reports are how public bodies find out how many people are affected. If people only speak up late at night, the record shows a fraction of the problem.
Who to tell
- Your local council.
- Your ward councillors.
- Your MP. The rules on fireworks are made by the UK Parliament and the devolved governments, so MPs are the people who can change them.
- Your local police team. Call 101, or report online through your local force's website.
If fireworks are being aimed at people, animals or buildings, call 999.
What to include in a report
- the date and time, as exactly as you can
- how long it went on
- roughly where the fireworks were let off, if you know
- how it affected you, your children or your pets
- how often it has happened this season
Asking for the rules to change
- Write to your MP. You can find them at Find your MP on the UK Parliament website.
- Sign or start a petition on the UK Parliament petitions website.
- Report every time fireworks disturb you, so there is a record of how many people are affected.
Fireworks and pets
Many dogs, cats and horses are badly frightened by fireworks. The RSPCA's advice on pets and fireworks explains how to help animals cope.
Common questions
Who do I report fireworks noise to?
Tell your local council, your ward councillors, your MP and your local police team. If fireworks are being aimed at people, animals or buildings, call 999.
Can I report fireworks during the day or early evening?
Yes. Fireworks affect people and animals whatever the time. Report them whenever they disturb you.
What should I put in a fireworks report?
The date and time, how long it went on, roughly where it came from if you know, and how it affected you, your children or your pets.
How can I ask for the rules on fireworks to change?
Write to your MP, sign or start a petition on the UK Parliament petitions website, and report fireworks every time they disturb you so there is a record.
More guides
This page is general information, not legal advice. Services differ between councils and between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. people.uk is independent and is not a government service.