Fireworks in Durban: What you need to know about the rules

With this week welcoming Guy Fawkes Day today (5 November), Diwali celebrations concluding on Sunday (8 November), as well as New Year’s Eve around the corner - many will be enjoying the opportunity to celebrate with fireworks.

To ensure safe use during these vibrant displays, eThekwini Municipality has shared some regulation reminders that are well worth noting.

READ: Diwali in Durban: Madame Curry shares the sweet taste of this tradition

When are fireworks permitted?

The municipality reminds residents that only consumer fireworks may be used at residences, and only on approved occasions:

• Guy Fawkes Day: 5 November.
• Diwali: Between sunset and midnight.
• New Year's Eve: From 11.45pm on 31 December until 12.15am on 1 January.

Note that ordinary residents should only use consumer fireworks. Fireworks classified as Category 1.3 under the Explosives Act No. 26 of 1956 may only be discharged by a qualified pyrotechnician.

What are the rules around using fireworks?

Residents must follow these requirements when purchasing and using fireworks:

• Only purchase fireworks from authorised shops displaying the relevant permits issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS).

• Fireworks should be sold in sealed packages, as received from the suppliers.

• Children under 16 may not handle or use fireworks unless they are under adult supervision.

• Fireworks may not be ignited, discharged or exploded on a public road, at a residence or on private property without the knowledge and consent of the occupant or property owner.

• It is unlawful to point or direct a firework at any person, animal, building or motor vehicle.

• Fireworks may not be lit or detonated in places where animals are kept, and residents may not use fireworks to terrify, stress or endanger animals.

Fireworks safety tips

The municipality has also shared practical advice to help prevent injuries and accidents during celebrations:

• Always supervise children and their friends when they are around fireworks.
• Discharge fireworks outdoors in a safe, well-ventilated area. Never use them indoors.
• Never hold a lit firework in your hand or light fireworks inside a container.
• Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby in case a firework malfunctions.
• If a firework does not ignite, do not try to relight it. Wait at least 15 minutes.
• Follow the instructions supplied with the packaging.
• Keep clothing away from fireworks when lighting them.
• Never discharge fireworks while under the influence of alcohol.
• The use of tea-light lanterns is strongly discouraged within the municipal area.

Keep your pets safe

Fireworks can be frightening for animals, prompting some pets to bolt or run away.

eThekwini Municipality encourages residents to keep pets safely indoors, preferably in an interior room where they are less exposed to loud noises. Make sure doors and gates are secure, and keep an eye on animals throughout the celebrations.

Make sure your pets wear collars with identification tags displaying your home address and telephone number in case they manage to escape.

How to report illegal fireworks

Residents who witness people breaking the municipality's fireworks regulations are urged to report non-compliance to Metro Police on 031 361 0000.

Those who contravene the bylaw may be liable for a fine.

Looking for a public fireworks display?

If you've missed the organised Diwali celebrations earlier this week, there are still events planned if you want to enjoy a display with family and friends.

Soni Fireworks is hosting a fireworks display at Chatsworth Plaza Rooftop on Friday, 6 November. The evening will include complimentary snacks from Kara Nichha's, with the display scheduled for 7.30pm.

Remember that a little consideration helps make the celebrations safer for everyone!

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