Who assesses fireworks displays in Western Australia?
The Dangerous Goods Safety Branch within the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety (LGIRS) assesses all applications for fireworks event permits in Western Australia. The branch ensures compliance with:
- Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004
- Dangerous Goods Safety (Explosives) Regulations 2007
- Safe use of outdoor fireworks in Western Australia: Code of practice
- Safe use of close proximity fireworks in Western Australia: Code of practice
LGIRS also works with other government agencies to help keep the public safe:
- Local Government Authorities – assess environmental impacts and community concerns, for example, noise, traffic and animal welfare
- Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) – assess bushfire risk and emergency access
- WA Police – assess public security and crowd management risks
- Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) – review potential impacts on aviation safety or the nearby airspace.
A permit is only issued when all relevant agencies endorse the application. The permit can be rejected if any agency identifies unresolved risks or objects.
Close proximity fireworks, like those used in theatre or stadiums, do not require a fireworks event permit. However, they must still be handled by trained and authorised personnel and comply with the relevant safety regulations. Possession or use of close work proximity fireworks by the general public is prohibited.
Can fireworks be bought or used for private events?
No. The purchase, possession, storage, or use of fireworks by the public in Western Australia is prohibited, except for a small category of unrestricted fireworks, like bon-bons, party poppers, Christmas crackers, throwdowns, and sparklers.
Fireworks may only be used legally by licensed fireworks contractors and licensed fireworks operators with a valid permit and/or licence. Unauthorised use can lead to large fines or criminal prosecution.
A licensed fireworks contractor can be engaged to manage the display and obtain the necessary permit on behalf of the organiser.
I have seen fireworks being used in the backyard. What should I do?
If you suspect someone is using fireworks illegally or in an unsafe way:
- do not approach or attempt to confiscate fireworks
- leave the area for your own safety
- report the incident to WA Police on 131 444, or 000 in an emergency.
Illegal fireworks are very dangerous and can cause injuries, fires, and damage to property.
How to notify people of local fireworks events?
Fireworks contractor must let neighbours who live within 200 metres of any outdoor fireworks events know about it, including the event date and time. It can be done by putting letters in their mailboxes, media announcements, or promoting the event. Local councils often publish scheduled displays on their websites or social media.
LGIRS also publishes a list of approved schedule of fireworks events, including any outdoor close proximity firework events.
Where can I raise concerns about a fireworks display?
Concerns should be directed to the appropriate authority:
| Issue | Contact |
|---|---|
| Noise, traffic animal welfare, community impacts | Your local government authority (city/shire) |
| Bushfire risk or fire safety | DFES or your local DFES office |
| Safety hazards during the event (debris, malfunctioning fireworks, unsafe crowd distances) | Contact the fireworks operator during the event, or email the Dangerous Goods Safety Branch at dgsb@lgirs.wa.gov.au |
Note: Noise, event content, or event approvals are not regulated by LGIRS. Its role is limited to assessing technical safety compliance under the dangerous goods safety legislation.
Do seasonal bans (e.g., fire bans or total fire bans) affect fireworks events?
Yes. Fireworks displays are not permitted during:
- Total Fire Bans, unless an exemption has been issued by DFES
- Restricted or prohibited burning periods, unless exempted.
Approved displays may be cancelled or delayed at short notice if conditions become unsafe. Public safety and fire prevention always take priority.