Noise from public events
Outdoor events can involve noisy activities such as:
- music
- fireworks
- fairgrounds
- public address systems
- generators
These activities can sometimes affect nearby residents.
If you are affected by noise from an organised outdoor event, contact the event organiser first. Many concerns can be resolved quickly by making the organiser aware of the issue.
Noise may be considered a nuisance if it is:
- frequent
- at a high volume
- poorly managed
Fireworks and noise
Fireworks can cause disturbance to nearby residents and may be particularly distressing for:
- older people
- young children
- people with sensory sensitivities
- pets and livestock
Environmental Health has powers to investigate statutory nuisances. However, noise from fireworks can be difficult to investigate as a statutory nuisance because displays are often short-lived and occasional.
One off or infrequent displays are unlikely to meet the legal definition of a statutory nuisance. Where complaints relate to persistent or repeated disturbances, we may be able to provide advice or investigate further.
Fireworks and the law
The Fireworks Regulations 2004 restrict the use of fireworks between 11pm and 7am.
The restrictions do not apply on certain celebration dates. Fireworks may be used:
- until 1am following the first day of Chinese New Year
- until midnight on 5 November (Bonfire Night)
- until 1am following Diwali
- until 1am on New Year's Day
These regulations are enforced by the police.
If fireworks are being used outside the permitted hours or are being set off in a street or public highway. contact the police on 101.
Report firework noise
If you are experiencing ongoing disturbance from fireworks, you can report noise nuisance to Environmental Health.
If fireworks are being used illegally, outside permitted hours, or in a dangerous or anti-social manner, contact Cumbria Police.
If you are planning a firework display
To help reduce disturbance:
- let neighbours know in advance, particularly if they have young children, older relatives, pets or livestock
- choose lower-noise fireworks where possible
- keep pets and other animals safely away from fireworks
- finish displays by 11pm where possible
- be considerate if neighbours raise concerns
Other firework-related concerns
For information about:
- dangerous or antisocial use of fireworks, see Antisocial use of fireworks
- buying, selling and reporting concerns about fireworks, see Fireworks: buying and selling safely