Selling explosives

The storage and sale of fireworks known as "shop goods" from wholesale and retail premises is controlled by the Explosives Act 1875, the Fireworks Act 2003, the Fireworks (Safety) Regulations 2004 (as amended), the Fireworks (Safety) Regulations 1997 (as amended) and the Consumer Protection Act 1987.

No person may store or sell fireworks unless the occupier of the premises has registered those premises with the Greater Manchester County Fire Service. You will find a link to their website on the right-hand side of this webpage.

Sale of fireworks

• Fireworks may not be sold to any person under the age of 18.
• Fireworks cannot be sold in the street or in any public place.
• The name and address on any fireworks from the manufacturer must not be removed, obliterated or altered.
• 'Bengal matches' are not fireworks and must not be kept with fireworks. 'Amorces' (paper caps) 'throwdowns' and 'sparklers' are fireworks and must be sold as such.
• An A3 sized notice must be displayed in the shop where it can be clearly seen. It is illegal to sell adult fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 and for anyone under the age of 18 to possess adult fireworks in a public place.
• Fireworks must be sold in a complete pack and not split. Anyone selling outside certain dates requires a special licence. For more information contact the GM Fire and Civil Defence Authority.

Offences and penalties

If a person keeps explosives on a non-registered premises or if they break the law regarding the quantity of explosives kept or the method of storage, they could be fined £5000 or more and the explosives forfeited.

Where a person breaks the law regarding the safe storage of explosives, an unlimited fine or term of imprisonment may be given.

A person found guilty of selling fireworks to anyone apparently under the age of 18 years could be fined up to a maximum of £5000.

More information

The Department for Business Innovation and Skills provides useful information to traders and suppliers of fireworks. You will find a link to their website on the right-hand side of this web page.

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