Apply for a fireworks (single use) licence

How to apply to SafeWork NSW for a licence to purchase, possess, use, store and transport fireworks for a single event.

Introduction

A fireworks (single use) licence (FSUL) allows you to purchase, possess, use, store and transport fireworks.

The licence is only valid for the single event that you nominate in your application, and you're only permitted to hold the type and quantity of fireworks for no more than 5 working days prior to the display.

A single event can be any of the following:

  • a one day event
  • an event that runs for up to 3 consecutive days
  • an extended display that runs longer than 3 consecutive days, but no longer than 3 months for an organised public event, or 12 months for a theatrical display.

The licence covers the following fireworks types:

  • ground display fireworks
  • theatrical and indoor fireworks
  • Chinese string fireworks.

You can apply for up to 4 FSULs in any 12 months.

If you want to use fireworks often, or include aerial shell type fireworks in your displays, you'll need to apply for a pyrotechnician's licence.

Eligibility

You must:

  • be aged 18 or over
  • have successfully completed training/instruction given by a person with a current pyrotechnician’s licence in the safe use of the fireworks to be used for the event or display.
  • only use the fireworks for an organised public event
  • have a supporting letter from the local Council stating they have no objections (only required if less than seven working days notice is given to Safework NSW or for an extended display)
  • have provided details of the fireworks to be used
  • be able to demonstrate you have notified the police, fire brigades, local council and any other relevant agencies.

What you need

  • the application fee
  • to confirm that you've completed the fireworks display checklist – PDF and written your risk assessment
  • a primary and a secondary proof of identification document that is JP certified or certified by Service NSW Service Centre with their Service Centre stamp and the Staff number and signature of Service NSW team member
  • statement of training in fireworks use must be made and signed by the current licenced pyrotechnician holder that has successfully trained the applicant in the use of fireworks to be used in the display. The statement must list the fireworks in which the applicant has been successfully trained – ground display fireworks, and/or theatrical/close proximity fireworks, and/or Chinese string fireworks.
  • if an interstate pyrotechnician licence is provided as evidence of experience, a certified copy of the front and back of the licence is required to be submitted with this application.
  • details of the fireworks supplier
  • the type and quantity of fireworks
  • the personal and contact details of your assistants
  • the type, duration, location and dates of the display
  • evidence that you've notified all appropriate agencies/parties
  • letter from the relevant local council advising that there are no objections to the display or copy of exclusive use aquatic maritime licence, issued by RMS if the display is held on waters regulated by RMS (required if less than seven working days notice is given to the Regulator or for an extended display)
  • if you're providing less than 7 days notice to SafeWork NSW, or applying for an extended display:
    • a letter from the appropriate council confirming there is no objection to the display, OR
    • a copy of your aquatic event licence if the display is on waters regulated by Transport for NSW.

How to apply

  1. Collect all the required documentation.
  2. Ensure you've written your risk report, as SafeWork NSW may request it.
  3. Select the 'Apply online' button.
  4. Complete the form.
  5. Submit your application with payment.

More information

As an FSUL holder, you must:

Documents

Last updated: 20 June 2025