Apply for a fireworks and explosives licence or registration

Use this guide to help you when applying for fireworks and explosives storage registration.

Anyone wishing to manufacture or store a quantity of explosives (including retailers selling fireworks) within their premises, must be registered or licensed by a licensing authority.

The organisation to whom an application must be made will depend on the type and quantity of the explosives it is intended to store.

  • If you intend to manufacture any form of explosive or firework, you must be licensed to do so by the Health and Safety Executive.
  • If you intend to store 2,000kg or more of explosives (net weight), you must be licensed by the Health and Safety Executive.
  • If you intend to store up to 2,000kg (net weight) of a type of explosive that requires an explosives certificate (for example, blasting explosive, black powder or smokeless powder), you must be registered with the Metropolitan Police.
  • If you intend to import any fireworks, you must be registered with HM Customs and Excise.

Contact the Licensing Team

If you need more information, please get in touch.