Explosives and Fireworks Licences

Licensing Online Applications

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Last updated: 16 April 2024

Explosives and fireworks

Storage of Explosives or Fireworks

If you wish to store explosives or fireworks you may need to be licensed by the local authority under The Explosives Regulations 2014. A list of exceptions can be found in Regulation 7 of the Explosives Regulations.

Further information, including a guidance leaflet for businesses is available on the HSE website.

Applications must be submitted on the form provided by the local authority and include any additional information and plans as required. The application must also be accompanied by the full application fee, please see the schedule of fees for further information.

Sale and Supply ofFireworks

In addition to a licence to store fireworks, businesses wishing to sell or supply fireworks may also require a licence under  The Fireworks Regulations 2004.

No licence is required for the sale or supply of fireworks which only takes place during the following periods

  • on the first day of the Chinese New Year and the three days immediately preceding it,
  • on the day of Diwali and the three days immediately preceding it,
  • during the period beginning on 15 October  and ending on 10 November, or
  • during the period beginning on 26 December and on 31 December

However, if you wish to sell or supply adult fireworks all year round you will need to be licensed by the local authority under The Fireworks Regulations 2004.

Applications must be submitted on the form provided by the local authority and be accompanied by the application fee of £500.

Last updated: 14 July 2021