Fireworks Categories: Everything You Need To Know

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If you’re planning a firework display, understanding the different categories is key – not just for safety, but for legal reasons, too. Whether you’re lighting a few sparklers in the garden or staging a full-blown community event, knowing what you’re buying (and what you’re allowed to use) makes all the difference.

We’re Anfield Fireworks, by the way – and we’re here to walk you through it all.

What Are Firework Categories?

Fireworks in the UK are divided into four main categories. These categories tell you how powerful the fireworks are, who can use them, and how far away spectators need to stand. Sounds boring? Maybe. But it’s the difference between a safe, enjoyable show and an emergency call-out.

Let’s break it down.

Category F1 – The Tame Ones

These are the most basic fireworks – the type you might find in indoor party poppers, novelty sparklers, or table-top fountains. Safe for very confined spaces. They’re designed for indoor or very close-proximity outdoor use, and yes, they’re legal to buy and use for anyone over 18. (So maybe don’t give them to the kids, but still – they’re pretty mild.)

  • Spectator distance: Minimal – we’re talking tabletop levels
  • Use: Indoors or in small outdoor spaces
  • Example: Birthday cake fountains, sparklers, party poppers

For example take a look at our category F1 handheld sparkler fountains https://anfieldfireworks.com/product/sparklers-and-glow-wands/

Category F2 – The Garden Display Sweet Spot

Now we’re talking. Category F2 fireworks are designed for outdoor use only, but still within relatively small areas – think back gardens or driveways (provided there’s enough space). They’re the go-to for most home displays. And yes, you’ll find some seriously impressive effects here.

  • Minimum safety distance: 8 metres
  • Use: Small garden displays
  • Legal for: Anyone over 18

These are still technically low-hazard, but they pack more punch than the tame F1s. A good quality F2 pack can give you that classic Bonfire Night feel – without needing a field or crowd control barriers.

For example take a look at Black Magic a category F2 firework.

Category F3 – For When You Have A Lot Of Space

F3 fireworks are designed for large open areas. These are the serious ones – much louder, more explosive, and frankly, way more exciting. But they’re not suitable for most home gardens. If you’re working with a field, a park, or a very large venue, then F3 is your friend.

  • Minimum safety distance: 25 metres
  • Use: Outdoor displays with lots of space
  • Legal for: Still over 18, but do not use in tight spaces

For example take a look at our Category F3 800 shot Armageddon compound https://anfieldfireworks.com/product/armageddon-800-shot/

Category F4 – Professionals Only, Please

Right. These are not for consumer use. Ever. Category F4 fireworks are professional-grade – they’re more powerful, they often require electrical ignition systems, and they’re intended for use by trained pyrotechnicians only.

  • Use: Large-scale professional displays
  • Safety distance: Often 100 metres or more
  • Legal for: Licenced professionals only

We know, we know – you might be tempted. But F4 fireworks are illegal to use without proper certification, so unless you’re a licenced operator with a safety team on standby, don’t go there. Seriously.

So Which Category Do You Need?

vibrant red fireworks on the river

Depends. Are you putting on a back garden display for Guy Fawkes? You’ll probably want Category F2 fireworks. Have access to a large outdoor space and planning a bigger bash? F3 is your sweet spot. Just make sure you’re respecting those safety distances – they’re not optional.

If you’re unsure whether your space is big enough for a particular category, feel free to reach out. We’ve been doing this for years and would rather help you plan a display that won’t singe your eyebrows.

Can I Mix Categories?

Yes – but with caution. A lot of people combine F2 and F3 fireworks in larger garden displays, and that’s fine as long as you observe the largest required safety distance. Think of it like cooking: if one ingredient needs 25 minutes, you don’t take the dish out at 10.

Just make sure you’re not lighting off anything you’re not legally allowed to handle. And again – F4 is not for mixing.

Planning A Big Show? Let’s Make It Easy

For large-scale events, we highly recommend looking into our curated firework bundles for large events. They’re designed to give you maximum visual impact with minimal stress. (And we’ve already made sure they’re legal and safe when used correctly.)

These packs often contain a mix of F2 and F3 fireworks, pre-planned in a display order that builds beautifully. Just add a firing area, spectators, and snacks.

And One Last Thing…

If you’re interested in learning more about the different types of fireworks themselves – rockets, cakes, fountains, and so on – we’ve got a whole guide for that. Because yes, fireworks are fun, but they’re also a bit of a science.

And we’re here to make that science as exciting (and safe) as possible.

Anfield Fireworks is your one-stop shop for high-quality, fully legal, and spectacular fireworks for all occasions. From small garden parties to big corporate events, we’ve got what you need – plus the expertise to help you do it right.