When is this licence required?
A fireworks operator licence is needed to:
- possess, set up and initiate outdoor fireworks at a display covered under a fireworks event permit (while under the employ or supervision of a licensed fireworks contractor)
- initiate firecracker chains at ceremonial occasions under a ceremonial fireworks notice provided to the WA Police and the local council
- initiate indoor fireworks under a permit issued by Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).
The fireworks operator licence is issued for five years.
The fireworks operator licence does not allow the holder to purchase fireworks or apply for a fireworks event permit.
Who can apply?
Only individuals, not companies or businesses, can be licensed.
The applicant must:
- be at least 18 years of age
- hold a current dangerous goods security card or recognised security clearance
- pass a medical assessment against the standards in Assessing Fitness to Drive - Medical Standards for Commercial and Private Vehicle Drivers not more than six months before the day the application is lodged
- possess competencies acceptable to the Department’s Chief Dangerous Goods Officer.
Required information
The following information is to guide you on the requirements for applying for and renewing fireworks operator licences.
Ensure you have the following documents before applying:
- Application: Complete and signed application form
- Competency Training: Summary of your experience, references from employers, and any relevant training certificates
- Medical Certificate: Assessed against the relevant standards
- Photograph: Digital photo (passport quality; JPEG format; a photo taken on a smartphone is acceptable)
- Relevant Offence: Original or certified copies of any convictions or pending charges
- Dangerous Goods Security Card: Colour copy of both sides of your valid card
- Proof of Identity: Colour copy of both sides of your motor driver’s licence, WA photo card, passport, or proof of age card
The completed and signed application must be lodged with the supporting documentation, which is:
- the original or the original certified document (where a copy is requested this does not apply)
- dated not more than six months before the day your application is received by the department.
Failure to provide the required documentation will delay processing of applications. Most applications are dealt with within 30 business days.
Application fee
The licence fee payable covers the 5-year period of the licence.
Go to Dangerous goods fees and charges for more information on licence fees.
Lodging the application
The completed application form, together with supporting documents and payment can be sent to the department via:
| By Mail | In Person |
|---|---|
| Safety Regulation Group Dangerous Goods and Critical Risks Locked Bag 100 EAST PERTH WA 6892 | Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 4:30pm Customer Service |
Mutual recognition
Show moreIf you are not resident in Western Australia, but hold a fireworks operator licence in another State or Territory of Australia, or New Zealand, you may apply for mutual recognition of that licence.
For information on mutual recognition refer to Applying for mutual recognition.
Notification of changes of details
Show moreThe Chief Dangerous Goods Officer must be notified within 14 days of any material changes to the details on a licence or registration.
Reporting an incident
Show moreFireworks operators are responsible for reporting accidents and incidents arising from their activities, including unexplained losses or theft.
Other guidance
Show moreThis code of practice covers the safe use of outdoor firework, including firework equipment, workshop operations and events.
The following information is to guide you on the requirements for applying for and renewing fireworks operator licences.
Applicable legislation
Show moreThis document is for guidance only and the definitive statutory requirements are contained in the Dangerous Goods Safety (Explosives) Regulations 2007 (the Explosives Regulations).
