Harrow Council enforces fireworks rules ahead of Diwali as government reviews restrictions
Residents urged to respond to consultation by 7 October 2026 after 300 calls about misuse last year
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Harrow Council has stepped up enforcement of fireworks rules as the government reviews potential restrictions following a surge in misuse last year. Over 300 calls about incidents were logged in 2025, prompting evening patrols in October to curb antisocial behaviour.
The council deployed teams from 6 pm to 10 pm each night for three weeks starting 17 October. Officers issued warnings, prevented 37 dangerous incidents, and enforced fines of up to £100 for violations. The patrols targeted streets and parks where misuse was reported.
Harrow Council backs fireworks clampdown after 300 misuse calls in 2025
Government consultation on tighter rules closes 7 October 2026, with residents urged to submit views before Diwali
Government seeks resident views on tighter rules
The UK Government opened a public consultation on 7 August 2026, seeking views on proposals to restrict the sale and use of fireworks. The consultation closes on 7 October, ahead of Diwali, Bonfire Night, and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Proposals include banning products deemed high-risk, limiting the availability of noisy fireworks to the public, and reviewing regulations for lower-risk items. The government stated that fireworks misuse has led to increased complaints and petitions calling for stronger controls.
Noise complaints in Harrow: there is no night service
The council says so itself. A party at 2am cannot be dealt with at 2am.
Last year, Harrow was affected exceptionally badly by fireworks during Diwali. Firecrackers were thrown at moving cars, nearly causing crashes at roundabouts, and residents in high-rise flats will never forget multi-shot barrages exploding directly outside their windows.
Brandon To, Roxborough Residents’ Association Committee
Brandon To, of the Roxborough Residents’ Association Committee, described 2025 as the worst year for fireworks misuse in Harrow. He reported incidents including firecrackers thrown from moving vehicles and individuals setting off fireworks outside residents’ windows.
To said the misuse has caused distress for elderly residents and pets, with some families considering leaving the borough during Diwali. He urged residents to respond to the government consultation to help shape future regulations.
Current rules and enforcement
Fireworks in Harrow are prohibited between 11 pm and 7 am, except until 1 am on Chinese New Year, Diwali, and New Year’s Eve, and until midnight on Bonfire Night. The council set up a dedicated phone line for reporting misuse last year.
The council described the behaviour witnessed during patrols as completely unacceptable. Officers focused on advising businesses and residents about correct usage while taking action against those breaking the rules.
What happens next
Residents have until 7 October 2026 to submit views to the government’s fireworks consultation. Harrow Council has not announced specific enforcement plans for this year but continues to monitor misuse reports.
The government will review responses before deciding on potential changes to regulations. Any new rules would aim to balance public safety with the cultural and celebratory use of fireworks.
Questions this report answers
+How many calls did Harrow Council receive about fireworks last year?
Harrow Council received over 300 calls about fireworks misuse in 2025. The calls led to enforcement patrols from 17 October for three weeks, with officers preventing 37 potentially dangerous incidents during that period.
+What are the proposed changes to fireworks rules?
The government proposes restricting noisy fireworks for public sale, banning high-risk products, and reviewing regulations for lower-risk items. The consultation closes on 7 October 2026, and residents can submit views before the deadline.
+When can fireworks be set off in Harrow?
Fireworks are banned between 11 pm and 7 am in Harrow, except until 1 am on Chinese New Year, Diwali, and New Year’s Eve, and until midnight on Bonfire Night. Violations can result in fines of up to £100.
+How can residents report fireworks misuse in Harrow?
Residents can report fireworks misuse to Harrow Council through a dedicated phone line set up last year. The council deployed enforcement teams from 6 pm to 10 pm for three weeks starting 17 October 2025 to address violations.
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