Justice Minister is reminding people that the
deadline to apply for a fireworks licence is imminent.
Applications must be received by the Department of Justice no
later than this Friday, 16 October.
The Minister said: The law is clear - if you intend to
purchase, possess or use fireworks, a licence is required. It is
an offence to buy or be in possession of fireworks without
one.
The Department is currently processing applications as
quickly as possible and I would urge anyone who hasn't submitted
their application yet, to do so as soon as possible before
Friday's deadline in order to have your licence in time for
Halloween.
Licence applications and a list of registered firework retailers
are available from NIDirect(external link opens in
a new window / tab)(external link opens in a new window /
tab)
Fireworks must be purchased from a supplier who has been
registered by the Department of Justice. Fireworks purchased from
illegal sources as the fireworks may not be safe and you could
face prosecution. Registered retailers should be easily
identified as they must display their licence or certificate of
registration prominently at the point of sale.
Notes to editors:
1. Visit NIDirect website(external link
opens in a new window / tab)(external link opens in a new window
/ tab) to get:
- details on how to apply for a licence, including an
application form
- a list of retailers
- guidance for members of the public and information on the law
surrounding fireworks
- information and advice on using fireworks safely
2. Information for retailers regarding the legislation
regarding the storage of fireworks is available on NIbusinessinfo website(external
link opens in a new window / tab)(external link opens in a new
window / tab)
3. Completed application forms together with the
appropriate fee should be returned to Firearms and Explosives
Branch, Knockview, Stormont Estate, Belfast BT4 3SJ.
4. The Explosive (Fireworks) Regulations (Northern
Ireland) 2002 came into operation in May 2002 and made it
compulsory for anyone wishing to purchase, possess and use
fireworks to obtain a licence.
5. The licence fee where there are fewer than 100
spectators is £30 and increases incrementally, depending on the
number of spectators. The fireworks listed on your licence are
the only fireworks that you can purchase. If you require
alternative or additional fireworks, you must contact the
Department's Firearms and Explosives Branch to have your licence
amended before making the purchase.
