Licensing

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.

What is a licence?

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).

What is registration?

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.

What is an explosives certificate?

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:

• ‘Acquire only’ certificate – to permit a person or company to obtain explosives that are to be used immediately, and not kept overnight

• ‘Acquire and keep’ certificate – to allow a person or company to obtain explosives and keep them in an approved storage place

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.

Find out more

• Manufacturing
• Storing explosives
• Separation distances