TIGHTER restrictions on fireworks have almost wiped out the traditional cracker night, with less than 200 permit requests in the North and North- West this year.
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Cracker nights were traditionally held on Commonwealth Day to celebrate the Queen's May 24 birthday.
A ban was rejected in 2009 in favour of regulations that banned the most powerful skyrockets and crackers, unless a pyrotechnician was present.
Public opposition to a ban enabled the cherished cracker night this Saturday to continue.
But the sky won't be lit up by too many cracker-lovers this year.
A total of 399 permit applications were received by Worksafe Tasmania, with 132 from the North, 55 from the North-West and 212 in the South.
Five years ago up to 800 permits were received.
Permit restrictions state that the display must finish before 10pm, last no longer than 30 minutes, and is restricted to 20 kilograms of type 2 fireworks, which include Roman candles, crackers, small skyrockets, fountains and wheels.
Permit holders must also notify the fire service, police, the council and neighbours so precautions can be taken with regards to pets and livestock.