Apply for a permit to display fireworks
Using or discharging fireworks without a valid permit is illegal and dangerous. You must ensure that you have the necessary permission before you host a fireworks display. Follow the steps below to find out how to apply.
How to apply
Before you apply, take note of the following:
In terms of Chapter 11 of the
Community Safety Amendment By-law (2007):
- You must apply for a permit at least 14 days before the day you intend to display the fireworks.
- Approval for the fireworks display will depend on compliance with all conditions.
- Once you have received your permit, it must be available on your premises for inspection at all times.
Fireworks must be used in approved areas only. Never use fireworks in a crowded area, and make sure that your pets and your neighbours pets have been well secured before you explode any fireworks.
events permit
If you expect to have 200 or more people attending the fireworks display, or it requires any infrastructure build, you will also need to
apply for an events permit from the City.
Follow the steps below to apply for a permit:
Step 1: Email the South African Police Service (SAPS) at
capetown.explosives.cmrd@saps.gov.za to apply for approval.
Step 2: If your application is approved by SAPS, you will receive an approval permit.
Step 3: Download and complete the
Public Fireworks Display Application Form
Step 4: Email your completed application form, together with your approval permit from SAPS, to
denzel.ramedies@capetown.gov.za
A City official will conduct a site inspection at the premises you intend to use for the fireworks display to determine if the site is safe to do so.
Please note
Strict conditions, in terms of the
Community Fire Safety By-Law, have to be adhered to before and during a fireworks display to reduce any potential risk to public health and safety. Failure to comply with any of the provisions of the By-law may result in a fine or imprisonment.
Fines and offences
The import and sale of fireworks without the necessary permissions outlined in the
Explosives Act of 1956 is illegal, as is the discharge of fireworks in an area not specifically designated for it.
- The sale of fireworks to a person that is not in possession of a valid permit is illegal. You cannot purchase or sell fireworks without a permit.
- Make sure you only purchase fireworks from a licensed dealer. A legitimate firework dealer shop will be identifiable by the sign ‘dealer in fireworks’.
You may not explode a firework:
- within 200 metres of any hospital, clinic, petrol station, old-age home, nursing home, or animal welfare organisation;
- inside any building or on a public street;
- in any other public place or recreational area, unless you have valid permission to do so.
The following fines are applicable, in terms of section 30 of the Explosives Act:
Report illegal fireworks
If you have any information relating to the illegal sale or use of fireworks, report it to:
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