9 Fireworks laws in SA that must be followed

Kaya 959 Lifestyle Reporter

Use the following 9 fireworks laws if you plan to celebrate this New Year’s Eve by setting a few off.

The list is guided by the South African Explosive act of 1956.

9 Fireworks laws in South Africa

1. Fireworks may not be set off in any public place. This includes in parks, on the pavement or the streets. Do note, shopping malls, restaurants, liquor stores and clothing retailers are also off-limits.
2. Fireworks may not be sold by street vendors, hawkers or at any informal open-air facilities.
3. Anyone who wishes to sell fireworks must have a valid licence, which is issued by the chief inspector of the Department of Explosives.
4. It is illegal to detonate fireworks within 200 metres of any hospital, clinic, petrol station, old-age home, nursing home, or animal welfare organisation or institution.
5. No one under the age of 16 is allowed to purchase or set off fireworks.
6. It is unlawful for any person to point or direct a firework at any other person, animal, building or motor vehicle.
7. No person or organisation is allowed to present a fireworks display unless formally authorised to do so by the Council (at least 14 days’ notice). Authorisation is also required from the Civil Aviation
8. Authority and the Chief Inspector of Explosives. What’s more, a pyrotechnician and SA Police Services explosives expert must be present at all times.
9. Fireworks may only be set off in designated areas between 7 pm and 10 pm on Guy Fawkes.
10. Failure to comply with any of the above could result in a hefty fine or even jail time.

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