Fireworks licence
All fireworks retailers must obtain an explosives licence.
Non retailers must obtain an explosives licence to store more than 5kg of consumer fireworks. Members of the public may not purchase or hold fireworks which are intended for professional use.
Retailers are only permitted to sell fireworks during the following periods:
- 15 October until 10 November
- 26 December until 31 December
- the first day of Chinese New Year and the 3 days before it
- the first day of Diwali and the 3 days before it
To sell fireworks at any other time, a retailer must obtain a separate all year-round sales licence.
Trading Standards will inspect the premise of each fireworks retailer to ensure that fireworks are being stored safely and securely. We will also carry checks to ensure that retailers have taken all necessary steps to avoid the sale of fireworks to under 18s.
Failure to adhere to all relevant fireworks legislation is a serious offence and may lead to investigation and prosecution.
Fireworks safety
View government fireworks safety guidance (GOV.UK)
Read celebration safety advice from Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service
View firework safety advice from London Fire Brigade
Fireworks and pets
View the RSCPA's pets and fireworks guidance.
Read Blue Cross' pets and fireworks guidance.
Petroleum
View guidance for operators and employees at a petrol station (HSE, GOV.UK)
Explosives licence fees – Hazard Type 4 explosives not exceeding 250kg
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1 year | £119 |
| 2 years | £154 |
| 3 years | £190 |
| 4 years | £226 |
| 5 years | £260 |
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1 year | £59 |
| 2 years | £94 |
| 3 years | £132 |
| 4 years | £166 |
| 5 years | £202 |
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1 year | £202 |
| 2 years | £266 |
| 3 years | £333 |
| 4 years | £409 |
| 5 years | £463 |
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1 year | £94 |
| 2 years | £161 |
| 3 years | £226 |
| 4 years | £291 |
| 5 years | £357 |
Variations, replacements, transfers and extensions
Variation or transfer of licence: £40
Transfer of licence or registration: £40
Replacement licence if lost: £40
Extended fireworks licence (annual licence to sell outside of permitted periods): £500
Tacit consent
Your licence will be issued within 20 working days of payment.
Tacit consent does not apply for this licence. You must not assume that your licence is granted if you have not heard from us.