Think again before you light that firework
No person may deal in fireworks (sell or make available) unless they hold a fireworks licence in terms of the Explosives Act 15 of 2003, as well as the written authority of the Chief Fire Officer.(R1 500 fine).
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December is “Fireworks Month”, but don’t find yourself on the wrong side of the law. Here are a few laws about fireworks:
– Unless special council authorisation has been applied for and granted, there are only 11 days annually when residents are allowed to “light or ignite” fireworks. Guy Fawkes and Divali are such days. (There is a R500 fine on other days).
– Except for New Year’s Eve, the only permissible time period for igniting fireworks on these days is between 7pm and 10pm (There is a R500 fine at any other time).
– No person may light or ignite fireworks in any place where animals are present (R1 000 fine). This includes domestic homes.
– No person may allow any minor (child) under his or her control to “use, light or ignite” fireworks (R1 500 fine). There are no exceptions to this rule.
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– No person may use fireworks on any agricultural holding or at any school or senior citizens’ residence without special council authorisation (R1 000 to R1 500 fine). This authorisation must be sought well in advance of the intended day.
– No person can use fireworks within 500 metres of any petrol depot or petrol station without special council authorisation (R1 500 fine).
– No person or organisation can “present a fireworks display” unless formally authorised to do so by the council (The council requires at least 14 days’ notice before the display to consider such an application). Authorisation is also required from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Chief Inspector of Explosives. (Multiple fines of R1 500 are applicable).
– At such a display (should permission be granted) a pyrotechnist and SA Police Services explosives expert must be present at all times. (R1 500 fines).
– No person may deal in fireworks (sell or make available) unless they hold a fireworks licence in terms of the Explosives Act 15 of 2003, as well as the written authority of the Chief Fire Officer. (R 1 500 fine).
The reign of terror which afflicts Johannesburg’s large pet population when people indiscriminately (and often criminally) ignite noisy fireworks at all times of the day and night gets worse every year.
Firm enforcement of the by-laws will assist in reducing the noise and panic levels and allow people (and their pets) to plan for “noisy” periods, thus producing a quieter, safer environment for all concerned.
Source: https://www.environment.co.za
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