Licensing and Registration for Explosives

This advice is designed to provide basic guidance to traders. It is not a complete or authoritative statement of the law.

You need to apply for Registration if you wish to store a maximum of either

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

The quantities allowed do depend on individual locations (eg separation distances from other buildings, footpaths etc)

Most consumer fireworks, shotgun ammunition, marine distress flares etc are Hazard Type 4 explosives. If you are in any doubt consult your supplier.

If you wish to store more than the above quantities, up to a maximum of 2000 kgs of any Hazard Type, then you need to apply for a Licence.

However, 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 Hampshire Police, tel 01962 841500 (Firearms and Licensing Section) for registration or a licence.

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

Licence and Registration Fees

• New Licence £178
  Renewal £83, can only be issued where the periods covered are continuous
• New Registration £105
  Renewal £52, can only be issued where the periods covered are continuous
• All Year round licence £500

Licences run from 1 October to the following 30 September.