Explosives and fireworks licence
Applying for a licence
Once your application is submitted and paid for online, it's automatically sent to the responsible authorities; so there's no need for applicants to send in paper hard copies.
If you store less than 5kg Net Explosive Mass (NEM) of explosives, you don't need a license. The NEM is either 25% of the gross weight of the explosives or exact figure stated by the manufacturer or supplier. However, you'll still need a firework annual suppliers licence if you intend to sell fireworks all year round.
Only persons with "fixed" premises can be licensed, so fireworks cannot be sold at market stalls or other temporary sales points
Licensing
Fireworks sold by retailers are generally the types of less powerful fireworks known as hazard type 4 (Hazprod code 1.4G). Southwark Licensing allows for storage of up to 250Kg (NEM) of type 4 without the need for separation distances, or up to 2,000kgs where suitable separation distances can be maintained.
We do not recommend the sale of “display” fireworks that require a minimum safe spectator distance of 25m to members of the public. These are hazard type 3 (Hazprod code 1.3G). If you intend to store and sell these, contact Trading Standards for specific advice.
Exemptions from licensing
There are a number of exemptions for the storage of very small quantities and for very temporary storage. For example, there are allowances for storage of shooters' powders and for certain lower-risk pyrotechnic articles which include articles such as flares, fog signals, car airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners. These must still be stored safely and securely. For further details contact the licensing team.
Vary or transfer a licence
If you wish to transfer or vary an existing licence, contact the licensing team.
Fees
All fees can be found on the legislation.gov.uk website.
Enforcement
We will carry out rigorous enforcement of these laws, particularly during the designated fireworks selling period. The police and fire brigade may also enforce certain provisions.
Such enforcement includes carrying out underage test purchases, as it's an offence to sell a firework to anyone under the age of 18 years.
We provide further advice and guidance to traders on our business and compliance advice page.
We may revoke explosives licences when necessary.
Page last updated: 16 April 2024
