Hazardous

Explosive

Never put unused fireworks in any bin, burn them or take them to the tip.

Fireworks (not sure which type)

Also called: fireworks, firework, bonfire night fireworks, firework rocket, roman candle, catherine wheel

Specialist disposal

National rules. Choose your council to see its answer.

Your council's answer

The answer can differ by council. Choose your council to see its rules for this item.

How to prepare it

  1. If you are not sure, treat it as unused: never put it in any bin

National rules

The answer isn't the same in every UK nation. Choose your council to see the one that applies to you.

England and Wales

Specialist disposal

There's no public drop-off for this. Here's who can take it.

Ask: Never put unused, damaged or dud fireworks in any bin or take them to the tip: recycling centres don't accept them. If they are dry and undamaged, let them off following the instructions; otherwise ask your local council or fire and rescue service how to hand them in, and use a specialist disposal company for large amounts.

Scotland

Specialist disposal

There's no public drop-off for this. Here's who can take it.

Ask: Never put unused, damaged or dud fireworks in any bin or take them to the tip: recycling centres don't accept them. If they are dry and undamaged, let them off following the instructions; otherwise ask your local council or the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service how to hand them in, and use a specialist disposal company for large amounts.

Scotland-wide guidance, checked 27 Sep 2026. View the source

Northern Ireland

Specialist disposal

There's no public drop-off for this. Here's who can take it.

Ask: Never put unused, damaged or dud fireworks in any bin or take them to the tip: recycling centres don't accept them. If they are dry and undamaged, let them off following the instructions; otherwise ask your council or the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service how to hand them in, and use a specialist disposal company for large amounts.

Northern Ireland-wide guidance, checked 27 Sep 2026. View the source

Has the firework been lit and burnt out?

The answer depends on the type. Choose the one that matches.

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