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Import And Storage Of Category F1 Fireworks 2022

Import And Storage Of Category F1 Fireworks 2022

Category 1 fireworks are classified as explosives and as such they are subject to all the legal provisions of the Explosives Act 1875 and associated legislation.  Any importer, distributor or retailer who intends to either import, store or supply Category 1 fireworks must comply with the legal requirements as outlined below.

Import:

Category 1 fireworks, (party poppers, sparklers, throw downs etc) can only be imported after an import licence has been issued by the Department of Justice. A licence will only be granted when this Department is satisfied that the fireworks are

  • CE marked or manufactured in accordance with a recognised national standard
  • Classified for transport in accordance with the UN scheme
  • All labels and markings are correct and
  • The importer has adequate suitable storage

I am attaching our “Guidance Document on the Legal Obligations for Importers, Retailers and Distributors for Category 1 Fireworks”and an Import Application Form.  (See at end of the Page for all separate download attachments).

Storage:

Category 1 fireworks (party poppers, sparklers, throw downs etc) must be stored in either a premises registered with the local authority, or a store licensed by the local authority. For the majority of retail outlets, a registered premises is sufficient. I am attaching a “Form of Notice to the Local Authority to Register Premises for the Sale of Category 1 Fireworks”  and an individual form must be filled out and sent to the relevant local authority for each storage and sales location. Please note that even if you registered your premises last year the registration is only valid for one year and so will need to renew your registration with the Local Authority. The Chief Fire officer of the local authority is normally the relevant person. I am also attaching our “Guidance Document for the Storage of Pyrotechnic Articles in Retail & Distribution Centres” which provides additional information on explosive storage limits, fire precautions and best practice for the storage of Category 1 fireworks. The Guidance for the Display of Category F1 fireworks in the sales area is included also a separate attachment.

Enforcement and Penalties:

It should be noted that

  • illegal importation of Category 1 fireworks
  • possession with intent to sell or supply unlicensed fireworks, or
  • unauthorised storage by any person is contrary to the Explosives Act , as amended, and is liable to prosecution. If you need any further information or assistance in relation to this matter please do not hesitate to contact me.

Regards,

Colm Farrell

Government Inspector of Explosives

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See the following separate PDF Attachments:

  1. Guidance on the Legal Obligations for Importers, Retailers and Distributors of Fireworks

    Download (PDF, 638KB)

  2. Application Form for the Importation of Fireworks Intended for Sale

    Download (PDF, 373KB)

  3. RP2 Notice to the Local Authority to Register Premises  

    Download (PDF, 203KB)

  4. Guidance for the Storage of Pyrotechnic Articles in Retail & Distribution Centres.

    Download (PDF, 376KB)

  5. Display of Category F1 Fireworks in the Sales Area 

    Download (PDF, 19KB)