Fireworks at weddings, birthdays could be banned under Shoalhaven Council proposal

Fireworks displays at weddings and 21st birthdays are on the chopping block as a south coast council proposes an end to the popular private pyrotechnics displays. Find out why.

Private fireworks displays at weddings and 21st birthdays will be banned under new rules proposed by Shoalhaven Council, which wants to restrict the popular pyrotechnics displays to commercial and council use on an effort to protect animals.

The council unanimously passed a motion at its Monday meeting to move to revoke the ability for private citizens to apply for a fireworks permit.

Under state law, fireworks displays are strictly prohibited, except if an application is made and approved by a local council which can then lobby for further approval from Safe Work NSW, or for commercial use.

Monday’s motion will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days, and if no submissions are received, it will be approved automatically.

The motion seeks to eliminate the harmful impact the often loud and bright fireworks displays can have on domestic animals as well as wildlife, according to council documents.

“Noise from fireworks can cause distress to the public and to animals,” the documents state.

“When frightened by fireworks, horses, livestock and dogs may injure themselves or run away, potentially causing accidents and damage to people, property, or to themselves.

The Huskisson Carnival will be one of the festivals still able to go ahead with its annual fireworks displays. Picture: Joyland Amusements

“Animal owners, particularly rural landholders, need to be advised of fireworks, to ensure animals are safe and appropriate steps can be taken to protect their animals.”

The council said the motion was triggered by an incident in 2021 when a horse was seriously injured when frightened by fireworks.

“The legislated neighbour notification occurred. However, the noise carried outside the notification zone to where the horse was located,” the document state.

“The horse sustained a serious injury after escaping from a stable and had to be transported to Sydney, and the owner incurred significant costs to treat the injured horse. This circumstance was discussed with a councillor at that time and was a precursor to the development of this policy.”

While the vote did not face any opposition, councillor John Kotlash said he really enjoyed fireworks and joking remarked he wished to see a return to open fireworks use.

Mayor Amanda Finley replied: “I think we’ll just take that as a rhetorical statement.”

The initial motion did not require the proposed changes to be put forward for public submissions. Councillor Patricia White moved the changes.