With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time for festive cheer, twinkling lights, and maybe a mince pie (or three). But while you’re decking the halls and spreading goodwill, you might unknowingly be breaking a few laws that could cost you dearly. The UK has some little-known Christmas regulations that, if ignored, could land you with fines ranging from £500 to £5,000. These rules cover everything from what you wear behind the wheel to the surprising restrictions on crackers.
Legal expert Matt Dolman from Lawsuit Legal News breaks down the festive faux pas you’ll want to avoid this holiday season.
1. Driving in a Christmas costume
Dressing up as Santa or an elf might win you points at the office party, but if you’re driving to get there, you’d better check your outfit. According to Rule 97 of the Highway Code, drivers must avoid clothing or footwear that could interfere with their ability to operate a vehicle safely.
“Santa’s boots or elf slippers could make it hard to control the pedals, while a festive hat might obstruct your vision.If an accident occurs and your outfit is deemed a factor, you could face fines up to £5,000,” warns the expert.
2. Selling Christmas crackers to children under 12
Christmas crackers are a staple of festive tables, but did you know they’re classified as pyrotechnic articles? Under the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015, selling crackers to anyone under 12 is prohibited.“The tiny explosive element that causes the pop is what classifies crackers as pyrotechnics,” says the expert.
“Retailers could face serious penalties if they sell them to younger children, even by mistake.”
3. Sliding on snow in London
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Be careful how you enjoy it, especially in London. A quirky law from the Metropolitan Police Act 1839 forbids making or using snow slides in the streets of the capital. “The rule aims to prevent accidents and injuries to pedestrians. Anyone caught sliding on snow or ice in public thoroughfares can be fined up to £500,” says the expert.
4. Killing game on Christmas Day
If your idea of a traditional countryside Christmas includes bagging your own bird for the table, take note: the Game Act 1831 bans shooting game on Christmas Day and Sundays. “This law, which still applies today, protects certain types of wildlife during the festive period,” Dolman explains. “It ensures game animals aren’t over-hunted during the holiday season.”
5. Opening packages that aren’t for you
With the surge in online shopping during the holidays, parcels often end up on the wrong doorstep. But don’t be tempted to open them. Under the Postal Services Act 2000, intentionally delaying, tampering with, or opening post not meant for you is a criminal offence.
“Doing so could also lead to civil claims for trespass to goods or the tort of conversion. It’s a serious matter, even if the parcel ends up at your address by mistake. If you receive a parcel that isn’t yours, it’s best to return it or contact the courier. Opening it could cost you a lot more than holiday goodwill,” says the expert.