With certain exceptions, a licence is required for the storage and/or manufacture of explosives.
HSE licences manufacturing activities and larger explosives stores. Smaller stores, holding less than 2 tonnes of explosives, are usually either licenced by HSE or registered with the local authority or the police.
A licence is a statutory document that allows the holder to store/manufacture more than 2 tonnes of explosives.
It is issued by HSE’s Explosives Inspectorate.
HSE may not grant a licence for a manufacturing facility or store until the local authority has given its assent (usually following a public hearing).
Registration is the issue of a fixed-rule licence for premises storing under 2 tonnes of explosives and fireworks.
HSE and other licensing authorities (ie local authorities, the police) can issue registration.
The fixed-rule licence issued under registration runs from 1 to 5 years.
An explosives certificate is issued by the police under the Control of Explosive Regulations 1991 (COER), which govern the possession of controlled explosives.
There are two types of certificate:
Anyone who wishes to acquire explosives, other than those listed under COER Schedule 1 needs to contact their local explosives liaison officer.
Find out how to apply for a licence or registration.
