'Definitely a need' for islanders to have their say on fireworks

Wednesday, 4 February 2026 08:00

There will be a public consultation into the use of fireworks in Jersey.

The government has been instructed to run a study on the topic, which has been a talking point for Jersey residents in recent years.

Deputy Max Andrews brought the proposition to the States Assembly after receiving complaints about fireworks from his constituents, particularly over their impact on animals.

"Their concerns [are about] the frequency of firework displays, and also, a number of firework displays have been taking place, and people have not been notified.

The deputy said revisions to the current rules are needed, because the existing 1970 Explosives Law controls their sale and not their use.

An update to the legislation, agreed in 2014, has not been enacted.

Home Affairs has been tasked with gathering public opinion, including those of animal welfare groups, and bringing recommendations to the States Assembly by mid-2028.

The Minister, Mary Le Hegarat, acknowledged the disturbance fireworks create has become an issue.

"Each November, I and other members receive correspondence from members of the public expressing concerns."

Some States Members raised concerns about private firework displays and how the consultation should account for them.

Deputy Alex Curtis says:

"The scale that is involved in personal fireworks displays, where people come together and light the fireworks, is a very different matter to private events, and any consultation into this should consider that."

Deputy Andy Howell expressed the need for balance.

"Our family really enjoys having sparklers; they don't make a bang, we just wave them in the air, and it's quite fun."

More from Jersey News

Jersey's government confirms work on modern slavery law

Jersey's government says it will draw up modern slavery legislation in response to calls from charities and community groups for better protections for migrant workers.
Plans to modernise Jersey's 'extremely outdated' cremation rules

Jersey's rules on cremation are being modernised for the first time since the 1960s.
Driver 'seriously injured' in Grouville crash

A driver has been admitted to hospital with serious injuries after a crash in Jersey.
Jury finds Shay John Bester guilty of offences including rape

Shay John Bester has been found guilty, after going on trial for offences including six counts of rape against three young, vulnerable females.
African community groups express disappointment with Deputy Ozouf sentencing

Friends of Africa Jersey and the Kenyans in Jersey Committee have come together to express their disappointment following Deputy Philip Ozouf's sentencing, and are calling for increased protection for workers who speak out about exploitation.
Island Energy to return to Royal Court over Mont Pinel gas explosion

Island Energy is set to return to the Royal Court to enter pleas after being charged by the Health and Safety Inspectorate over a gas explosion at Mont Pinel.
Jersey to introduce legal limit for PFAS in drinking water

A legal limit for PFAS in Jersey's drinking water will be introduced for the first time.
Jersey Electricity drops St Martin solar farm idea

Jersey Electricity has dropped plans for a solar farm on land in St Martin belonging to the King.