As the festive season is before us, the Mineral Resources Department (MRD) responsible for the regulation of fireworks, would like to bring to the public’s attention to remind all of the legal and safety aspects in relation to the purchase, storage/ possession and use of consumer fireworks.
Fireworks are not toys but are in fact powerful pyrotechnic products which are classified under the UN Hazard Classification system as Class 1.3 and 1.4 explosives. Class 1.3 fireworks are strictly for public displays conducted by a certified fireworks operator while some Class 1.4 fireworks are consumer fireworks which are permitted for sale over the counter for private use. Hence, please ensure that the fireworks that you are purchasing are permitted fireworks.
Legal requirements
1. You must be 18 years and above to purchase fireworks and fireworks retailers are not allowed to sell or supply fireworks to a person who is under the age of 18.
2. Only purchase fireworks from licensed retailers. Retailers that are allowed to sell fireworks should conspicuously display the following licenses issued by MRD, in their premises:
a. Licence to Store & Deal in Explosives
b. License to Possess Explosives
3. Non-permitted or prohibited fireworks include spherical or cylindrical shells, firecrackers (woodpecker, strikers, bangers, lady-crackers, flash-bangers, pulling/string crackers etc.), aerial wheels, mines (bag mine, cylinder mine), rockets (moon traveller, missile-type rocket, whistling rocket etc.), roman candles and rockets without stick.
4. It is prohibited to make your own fireworks (e.g. the making and use of “bamboo guns”).
5. The use of fireworks is permitted between the hours of 5.00pm and 10.00pm.
6. Only on Diwali Holiday – Tuesday, 21st October 2025, the permitted usage times will be between the hours of 5.00pm and 12.00am midnight.
7. Breaches of the above will constitute heavy fines of up to $400 or imprisonment of up to 6 months.
Purchase
1. Only purchase permitted fireworks i.e., fountains, cakes/combinations, sparkles, novelties etc., if unsure, do not purchase.
2. Ensure that safety instructions on the fireworks are in clear English language.
Storage
1. Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.
2. Check thoroughly for and abide by fireworks handling instructions.
Transportation
1. Do not transport fireworks in the passenger compartment of your vehicle.
2. Fireworks should be loaded in the trunk. For vans or pick-up-trucks, always transport fireworks in a non-sparking container with a lid.
3. Do not smoke, take drugs or drink alcohol (or under the influence) while handling fireworks.
Family Display Set-Up
1. Use fireworks outdoors as they are designed for outdoor use only.
2. Ensure that a clear, open area is used - away from buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions and dry bush or grass which are fire hazards
3. A clear area of 20m by 20m is recommended for fountains and other ground based fireworks.
4. Do not set off fireworks in times of strong winds. Fireworks should be lit downwind of spectator area.
5. Keep a water hose and a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire or to douse used fireworks.
6. Carefully read all the instructions for each firework item prior to usage.
7. Always light ground-based fireworks (fountains etc.) on a hard, flat and level surface for stability. Grass lawn is not suitable, but cement blocks can be used provided they are secured on the ground.
8. For aerial fireworks (e.g. Cakes), it is recommended that the item is buried to half its length in the ground or in a large box filled with earth or sand or enclosed between two concrete blocks to prevent the firework article from tipping over.
Firing/Initiation
1. Protect your eyes with safety glasses or safety goggles and use hand gloves.
2. Wear appropriate clothing such as cotton garments when firing/initiating fireworks.
3. Keep children away from fireworks. Never let children handle, play with or initiate fireworks under any circumstances. Even sparklers, which are considered by many as safe fireworks for children, burn at very high temperatures and can easily cause serious injuries and ignite clothing. Adult supervision at all times is advised.
4. Take care when handling fireworks to prevent dropping them.
5. Do not carry fireworks in your pocket.
6. When lighting fireworks:
-Never put any part of your body including your head over the fireworks.
-Never point the fireworks or throw them at people, vehicles or animals.
7. Do not attempt to re-light fireworks that have misfired. Wait for 30 minutes and then place them in a bucket of water.
Lastly, MRD humbly requests the public’s consideration and respect of the Hindu Community’s Diwali prayers from 6pm to 7pm on Diwali Day. The Department hopes for a fireworks incident-free festive season. Remember, fireworks are not toys but dangerous goods that must be treated or handled with utmost care and responsibility.
For any general public query regarding fireworks, please contact Dr. Apete Soro of the Mineral Resources Department on phone No: 338 1611 or email address apete.soro@mrd.gov.fj