Trinidad and Tobago is poised to implement comprehensive fireworks regulations through new legislation currently under parliamentary consideration. The Fireworks Regulation Bill, which entered debate on December 9, establishes a permit system for pyrotechnic use while designating violations as ticketable offenses.
The proposed legislation creates specific exceptions for traditional celebrations, allowing fireworks without permits on public holidays between 8-9 PM and on December 31 (Old Year’s Night) from 11:30 PM to 12:30 AM. However, all other fireworks usage will require explicit authorization from the Commissioner of Police.
Significant safety buffers are mandated under the bill, prohibiting fireworks within a half-mile radius of sensitive locations including animal shelters, zoos, farms, forest reserves, national parks, hospitals, and airports.
The advocacy group Citizens Against Noise Pollution of Trinidad and Tobago (CANPTT) has enthusiastically endorsed the legislation, characterizing it as a groundbreaking approach to addressing fireworks as a public health concern. The organization noted this represents Trinidad and Tobago’s first formal recognition of pyrotechnics as a matter of “national responsibility.”
While celebrating the progress, CANPTT identified three critical areas requiring strengthening: explicit legal protection for residential areas, publicly accessible enforcement mechanisms operating before law activation, and immediate penalties substantial enough to deter violations. The group emphasized that true protection must extend beyond legislative text to positively impact citizens’ daily living experiences and safeguard society’s most vulnerable members.