Local businesses reminded of firework licence requirements

Press Release
Ref: RB WRS12026
Issued: 19 November 2012 for immediate release
Local businesses reminded of firework licensing
requirements
With bonfire night and Diwali now behind us and the New Year celebrations ahead, local
businesses are being reminded of the periods when they can and cannot sell fireworks
without a licence.
The events and seasonal periods where selling fireworks without a sales licence is
permitted are:
• Guy Fawkes: 15 October – 10 November
• New Year: 26 December – 31 December
• Chinese New Year: the first day and the three days immediately preceding it
• Diwali: on the day of Diwali and the three days immediately preceding it
Outside of these periods, suppliers of fireworks are required to obtain a licence to supply
fireworks. This is in addition to any licence or registration allowing the storage of fireworks.
An annual licence to sell fireworks can be purchased from Worcestershire Regulatory
Services at a cost of £500.
Richard Williams, Senior Practitioner from Worcestershire Regulatory Services,
said: “Businesses that may have recently been selling fireworks need to ensure they have
a licence if they wish to continue selling outside the agreed seasonal periods.

“Suppliers are also reminded that if they sell fireworks, they have certain obligations to the
public and their staff. These include storing fireworks safely, not selling to anyone under 18
years of age and knowing their fire drill.”
To apply for a licence to sell fireworks outside of the agreed periods, email
enquiries@worcsregservices.gov.uk or call 01905 822799.
You can also find a copy of Worcestershire Regulatory Services’ Fireworks Safety Guide
for Retailers at www.worcestershire.gov.uk
If you have any concerns about a caller at your door please contact the Citizens Advice
Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06 who act as the first point of contact for Trading
Standards matters.
If you are concerned that a trader is being aggressive, or you are concerned for the safety
of yourself or your property, please contact the police directly.
ENDS
About Worcestershire Regulatory Services
Worcestershire Regulatory Services, hosted by Bromsgrove District Council, delivers
services including Trading Standards, Environmental Health and Licensing throughout the
County.
For more information call the Press Office direct on 01527 881296.