New Fireworks and BBQ Ban in the Staffordshire Moorlands: What It Means for You

If you’re planning a countryside walk with a sparkler in one hand and a burger in the other, best read this first.

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council has introduced a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which bans fireworks, disposable barbecues, Chinese lanterns and open flames in certain outdoor areas. The move is designed to reduce the risk of wildfires—especially after a spate of incidents earlier this year.

Anyone caught ignoring the new rules could be handed an on-the-spot fine of £100.

Why has this happened?

Because wildfires are a serious issue, and they’re happening more often. Back in April, a blaze near the Cat and Fiddle pub tore through 800 acres of moorland and woodland. Add a couple more fires in March and one of the driest springs in decades, and it’s clear why the council felt it needed to act.

The PSPO covers public land owned by the district council and areas within the Peak District National Park. And while it’s easy to roll your eyes at another rule, this one’s about protecting open countryside that’s vulnerable to careless behaviour.

What exactly is banned?

The order is very specific. You can’t:

• Light fireworks

• Use disposable or open-flame barbecues

• Release Chinese lanterns

• Drop, place or throw anything that might cause a fire (including matches, embers or smouldering litter)

• Use any naked flame in the restricted zones

Essentially: if it burns, crackles or glows, it’s probably not allowed.

Where does it apply?

The PSPO affects publicly accessible land owned by the district council, as well as any areas within the Peak District National Park. It’s not a blanket ban across the whole county, but if you’re out enjoying the wild spaces in these areas, you’ll need to play by the new rules.

Will it be enforced?

That’s the plan—though the council admits it doesn’t have loads of enforcement officers patrolling the hills. The aim is to make the rules clear through signage and communication, so that most people comply without a fine being needed. Partner agencies like the fire service and park authorities may also be involved in enforcement.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes, there are a few sensible exemptions:

• Permanent, fixed barbecue or cooking structures (the stone ones you sometimes see in public parks, for example)

• Legitimate land management activities (usually carried out by trained professionals)

But if you’re planning to fire up a disposable barbecue or light a rocket to celebrate your mate’s birthday, this isn’t the spot.

Our stance as a responsible fireworks retailer

Look, we sell fireworks—we love fireworks. But we also know that where and when you use them matters. Fireworks are for celebrations, not emergency callouts.

At Epic Fireworks, we take fire safety seriously. That means:

• Always encouraging our customers to follow local laws and restrictions

• Never selling or promoting the use of fireworks in high-risk environments

• Supporting clear communication around when and where fireworks are safe and legal to use

If you're ever unsure, ask. We’ll happily help you work out whether your celebration plans are good to go—or whether you’d be better off watching a public display instead.

Stay informed, stay safe

This new ban might feel like a buzzkill if you had plans for a scenic firework send-off in the hills—but let’s be honest, nobody wants to be the one responsible for torching the countryside. If you're after ideas for where you can enjoy fireworks safely and legally, check out our guide: Your Ultimate Guide to UK Firework Events in 2025.

Stick to the rules, respect the land, and we’ll all get to keep enjoying fireworks the way they’re meant to be: loud, legal and unforgettable.