Explosives storage - Licences and permissions

You will need a licence to store over 5 kilograms of explosive material. This includes fireworks, marine distress flare or theatrical pyrotechnics. More detailed guidance is available from the Health and Safety Executive.

Read further guidance from the Health and Safety Executive

Read about Trading Standards enforcement

If you are a registered firearms dealer

Registered firearms dealers or anyone wanting to store explosives that require a certificate such as gunpowder or high explosives, should contact Police Scotland.

Storing over 2000 kilograms of explosive material

Storing more than 2000 kilograms of explosive material or manufacturing explosives requires a Licence from the Health and Safety Executive.

Apply for a licence from the Health and Safety Executive

Renew your current registration or licence

If you are not a registered firearms dealer and are storing less than 2000 kilograms of explosive material, you can apply for a licence (which can run for up to 5 years) by contacting our Trading Standards office.

Whatever type of explosives you are storing, you will need to assess the fire and explosion risks and put in place safeguards to protect your employees and the public. Risk assessment forms and guidance is available from the Health and Safety Executive.

Access further guidance and risk assessment forms from Health and Safety Executive

Further specific guidance for fireworks retailers, wholesalers, firework display operators and non-business organisations planning a firework display is available from Trading Standards.

Read further guidance from Trading Standards

Licensing

• Phone: 01349 886609
• Email: licensing@highland.gov.uk

Trading Standards

Email: trading.standards@highland.gov.uk