If you store or sell fireworks or other explosives you will need either (depending on the quantities involved) to register with us or obtain a licence from us.

In order to comply with your registration or licence conditions you will have to ensure that fireworks or explosives are stored safely and are not sold to under 18s. For further guidance on age restricted sales click here. Periodic inspections are carried out to ensure that premises are registered or licensed and that they are complying with all legislative requirements.    

The trading standards service has a programme of test purchases using under age volunteers. Officers visit shops in the run up to  5 November to see if shopkeepers will sell to those volunteers. Officers will also test purchase fireworks to ensure they comply with all the relevant British Standards and are safe to use.

Please contact our consumer helpline if you know of any shop that may be selling fireworks to children or if you have concerns about the safety of any fireworks you may have bought.

Licences for the storage and sale of fireworks and other explosives should now be obtained from the County Council rather than from the Fire Service. For advice and guidance please contact the Licensing Team using the details below.