Please note that in addition to a storage registration or licence (as described on this page), any person intending to supply fireworks or expose for supply fireworks all year round also requires a fireworks licence.

Who needs to apply for registration for storage

A simplified form of licence known as registration is suitable if you wish to store a maxium of either:

• 30kg of Hazard Type 1 or 2 explosives
• 100kg of Hazard Type 3 explosives
• 250kg of Hazard Type 4 explosives

Most consumer fireworks, shotgun ammunition, marine distress flares etc are Hazard Type 4 explosives. The hazard type of an explosive will be listed on manufacturer's or supplier's information. If you are in any doubt consult your supplier.

Who needs to apply for a licence for storage

If you wish to store more than the above quantities, up to a maximum of 2000kg of any Hazard Type, then you need to apply to us for a licence (see below for details).

Storage of over 2000kg

To store quantities in excess of 2000kg of any Hazard Type you will have to apply to the Health and Safety Executive.

Police certificates

If any of the explosives you wish to store require a Police Certificate under the Control of Explosives Regulations, you will have to apply to Thames Valley Police 0845 505505 (Firearms and Licensing Section) for registration or a licence.

Fees

The fees for the registration and licences we issue (see above for exceptions) are:

• new registration for storage: £105
• renewal of registration for storage: £52 *
• new licence for storage: £178
• renewal of licence for storage: £83 *

* A renewal can only be issued where the periods covered are continuous.

How to apply

Download and complete this application form (pdf format, 407 KB) and send it, with your fee, to:

Trading Standards Service
Oxfordshire County Council
Electric Avenue
Ferry Hinksey Road
Oxford
OX2 0BY

Tel: 0845 051 0845
Fax: 01865 783106
Email: trading.standards@oxfordshire.gov.uk

All cheques should be made payable to ‘Oxfordshire County Council’

Complaints about a person or trader licensed by us

In the event of a complaint contact the trader, preferably in the form of a letter (with proof of posting/delivery). If that fails and you are located in the UK, contact Consumer Direct for advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.