Apply for a fireworks and explosives licence or registration

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

Apply for a storage licence

Who can use this service

Businesses that need to store larger amounts of explosives than a registration would allow can apply for a storage licence. This includes specialist retailers selling large quantities of fireworks, or other businesses involved with explosives on a daily basis.

No more than 2,000kg of explosives can be stored in premises licensed by the council. If it is intended to store more than this, or to store types of explosives that require Explosive Certificates, then an application must be made to either the:

When you apply

When considering applications for licences, we will look at:

  • whether the premises are suitable for the storage of explosives
  • whether the applicant has previously been convicted of explosives-related offences.

If we have concerns about an application, we are required to allow the applicant to make representation in support of their application, before coming to a decision.

Licences are usually valid for a year and expire in September. They can be revoked if it is believed that the premises are no longer suitable or if there are concerns about the fitness of the licensee.

Costs

Type 1 years' duration 2 year's duration 3 years' duration 4 years' duration 5 years' duration 
Explosives licence (new) where a minimum separation distance of great than 0 metres is prescribed £185 £243 £304 £374 £423
Explosives licence (new) where no minimum separation distance or a 0 metres minimum separation distance is prescribed  £109 £141 £173 £206 £238
Explosives licence (renewal) where a minimum separation distance of greater than 0 metres is prescribed £86 £147 £206 £266 £326
Explosives licence (renewal) where a minimum separation distance or a 0 metres minimum separation distance is prescribed £54 £86 £120 £152 £185
Change of name of licensee or address of site; transfer, duplicate £36


Apply for a storage licence