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Department of Justice and Community Safety

FIREWORKS - GENERAL INFORMATION

As part of the ACT Government's commitment to improving community safety and reducing the number of firework related incidents, the Government regulations under the Dangerous Substances Act 2004 restrict the sale, use, and availability of fireworks.

The official Queen's Birthday long weekend is the only time of the year when members of the public are legally allowed to use fireworks. The regulations also require that fireworks may only be sold from licensed premises and not, for example, from the roadside.

Consumer Fireworks

Only Fireworks that have been registered as Consumer Fireworks can be sold to members of the public.

Who can purchase and use consumer fireworks?

Only ACT residents, who are 18 years or older, may purchase fireworks for use during the Queen's Birthday Public Holiday weekend only.  

Who can sell consumer fireworks?

Fireworks retailers must have a licence to sell consumer fireworks.  These licences are issued by the Office of Fair Trading.

When can consumer fireworks be used?

Fireworks may only be discharged between 5:00pm and 9:00pm on Saturday and Sunday of the Queen's Birthday Public Holiday weekend.

Fireworks cannot be used during a total fire ban. For information relating to fire bans, telephone 6207 8603.

Where can consumer fireworks be used?

Fireworks may only be purchased and used within the ACT.

Fireworks cannot be used in public streets or parks without prior written approval from the relevant Government authority. For information relating to obtaining approval for the use of fireworks in public places, telephone Urban Parks and Places on 6207 7132 and Commonwealth land, telephone National Capital Authority on 6271 2888.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks can cause serious damage and injury if used in an unsafe and irresponsible manner.

All fireworks must be used in a manner which will not endanger
any person or animal, or damage property.

Each firework should have clear instructions printed on the packaging, describing what it does and how to use it safely. Use the firework in accordance with these instructions. If your firework does not have this information, do not use it.

Ensure that fireworks are stored out of reach of children and away from any potential sources of ignition.

Use fireworks in clear open spaces, at a safe distance from buildings, vehicles or vegetation.

Do not lean over the firework or hold a firework in your hand while it is being lit, and keep spectators at least 5m away from the firing site.

Protect animals by keeping pets safely indoors. Fireworks should not be used in areas where they could harm wildlife.

Ensure that a garden hose or bucket of water is readily available in case of a fire.

A guide to consumer fireworks is available here.

Concerns about the illegal sale or use of fireworks should be reported to ORS WorkCover on 6205 0200, or to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. For police attendance at an incident, call 131 444.