Kirkintilloch mum calls for firework control zones
Last updated 6th Oct 2026
A Mum from East Dunbartonshire's campaigning to get firework control zones introduced across the area.
Community staff nurse Laura Miller is asking East Dunbartonshire Council to consider putting the restrictions in place, in order to protect children like her six-year-old daughter, Grace.
Grace has autism and struggles with loud and unexpected noises.
Laura told Clyde 1 that fireworks set off last year left Grace extremely distressed: "She cried herself to sleep with her hands over her ears, terrified, and I couldn't control what was going on outside. And that as a parent is absolutely heart-breaking. So this year I want to make a difference. For Grace."
Firework control zones are designated local areas where it is illegal for the public to set off fireworks, even on private property like gardens. Breaking the rules can lead to a fine of up to ÂŁ5,000 or up to six months in prison.
The Scottish Government brought the zones into place on June 22nd, 2023, giving local authorities the power to act.
Laura told Clyde 1: "It's not about banning fireworks altogether. I'm looking looking to create another solution for neurodivergent people in East Dunbartonshire. People who are distressed and really upset with these loud noises, and can't control it."
Firework control zones are already in place in several local council areas around Scotland. Notably, Edinburgh has confirmed fourteen for the autumn period (October 30th to November 8th, 2026). Glasgow City Council have also designated four zones for the same period, covering Govanhill and Pollokshields, Broomhouse, Glasgow Harbour Terrace, and Pollok (around the Scottish SPCA Centre).
Laura wrote on her petition page: "When someone lights a firework, they may experience a few seconds of excitement and enjoyment. But somewhere nearby, that same firework could be causing a child to panic. It could be causing an autistic adult to experience sensory overload. It could be frightening someone who already struggles with anxiety. It could be terrifying a dog, cat, horse or another animal.
The person setting off the firework may never see the impact it has. But that doesn't mean the impact isn't real."
East Dunbartonshire Council’s Chief Executive, Ann Davie, said, “We would welcome contact from the resident in relation to her concerns and would be happy to discuss the Council’s current position on Firework Control Zones and the possibility of introducing them in East Dunbartonshire.”
You can sign Laura's petition here.