Is coloured smoke legal in NI?

Can I buy coloured smoke in NI?

Yes. You need to be 18 or over, and some smoke grenades and flares count as explosives under the Explosives Act (Northern Ireland) 1970. For those, the police need to give consent before they can be supplied to you, using PSNI Form 31/9.

When you buy from us, products that need consent are marked in the shop and the form is built into checkout.

Where can I use it?

• Outdoors, with permission. Only use smoke on land where the owner or venue has said yes. Many wedding venues are happy to allow it, but always ask first.
• Away from roads. Thick smoke can drift across a road and blind drivers.
• Not indoors unless a product is specifically made for indoor use.
• Away from dry grass and anything that can catch fire. Smoke grenades get hot.
• Mind other people. Keep smoke away from crowds, animals and anyone with breathing problems.

Using smoke safely

• Read and follow the instructions on the product before you use it.
• Hold it away from your face and body, and never point it at anyone.
• Check which way the wind is blowing and stand upwind.
• Use a heat resistant glove if the product is held in the hand.
• Keep water nearby and let used grenades cool fully before binning them.
• Store unused smoke somewhere cool, dry and locked away from children.

What about fireworks rules?

Fireworks have their own licensing rules in Northern Ireland, run by the Department of Justice. nidirect sets out when you need a fireworks licence. For the smoke products we sell that need permission, the route is police consent on Form 31/9.