Fireworks Licence In South Africa

Businesses selling fireworks are required to apply for a licence at the SAPS Explosives Unit.

“The application must also be sent to the metro’s EMS and EMPD.

“Residents who wish to use fireworks must also apply at the relevant EMPD precinct station for permission.

“This is to ensure that fireworks are used in a safe manner and will not constitute a fire hazard,” he said.

Residents using fireworks without approval can also receive a spot fine of between R1 000 and R2 500.

Important Things to Know About Fireworks Laws in South Africa

  1. Fireworks may not be set off in any public place. This includes in parks, on the pavement or the streets. Do note, shopping malls, restaurants, liquor stores and clothing retailers are also off limits.
  2. Fireworks may not be sold by street vendors, hawkers or at any informal open-air facilities.
  3. Anyone who wishes to sell fireworks must be in possession of a valid licence, which is issued by the chief inspector of the Department of Explosives.
  4. It is illegal to detonate fireworks within 200 metres of any hospital, clinic, petrol station, an old-age home, nursing home, or animal welfare organisation or institution.
  5. No one under the age of 16 is allowed to purchase or set off fireworks.
  6. It is unlawful for any person to point or direct a firework at any other person, animal, building or motor vehicle.
  7. No person or organisation is allowed to present a fireworks display unless formally authorised to do so by the Council (at least 14 days’ notice). Authorisation is also required from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Chief Inspector of Explosives. What’s more, a pyrotechnician and SA Police Services explosives expert must be present at all times.
  8. Fireworks may only be set off in designated areas between 7 pm and 10 pm on Guy Fawkes.
  9. Failure to comply with any of the above could result in a hefty fine or even jail time.

How To Get Firework Licence In South Africa

Fireworks in South Africa are controlled in terms of the Explosives Act, 1956 (Act No. 26 of 1956). Contact South African Police Service for fireworks licence Tel: +27 (0) 12 393 1000
SAPS Head Office
Koedoe Building
236 Pretorius Street
Pretoria