Licences - storage of explosives premises
Explosives / Fireworks registrations
Storing fireworks
If you store fireworks, you need a registration or licence from the local authority, via Trading Standards.
The regulations allow up to 250kg net weight (approximately 1000kg gross weight) to be stored. The net weight, or NEQ (net explosive equivalent), is often marked on the outer packaging of the explosives. Information about net weight of fireworks can be obtained from your supplier. If that information is not available, then the net weight is taken as being 25% of the gross weight.
The licence or registration is granted to a person (or company).
Who needs to be registered?
Registration is required if you wish to store the following types of fireworks -
- Up to 250kg of Hazard Type 4
- Up to 100kg of a combination of Hazard Type 3 and 4
- Up to 100kg of Hazard Type 3 explosives
This includes the amount held both on a shop floor and in any storage area. Most fireworks in retail premises are Hazard Type 4, but if in doubt check with your supplier. If you are storing larger quantities of fireworks (eg. 250kg - 2000kg NEQ of Hazard type 4 fireworks), you will need a licence for the store. Contact Trading Standards for more information.
If you store less than 5kg of explosives, then there is no need to be registered or licensed.
Selling fireworks
Note: A registration is for the storage of fireworks. This does not entitle you to sell fireworks every day of the year. You can only sell fireworks during the following periods:
- 15th October - 10th November
- 26th December - 31st December
- On the 1st day of the Chinese New Year and the 3 days immediately preceding it
- On the day of Diwali and the 3 days immediately preceding it
If you wish to sell fireworks outside of these periods, you will also require a licence to sell fireworks. The current fee for such a licence is £500.
Registration Fees
If you have not been registered with us previously, and you intend to store up to 250kg NEQ, then your application will be classed as a new registration, and the fee will be £105.00. If your registration is a renewal from last year for storing up to 250kg NEQ, then the fee will be £52.00.
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