Cape Town is already seeing a sharp rise in complaints about fireworks ahead of Guy Fawkes and Diwali, prompting the City to warn residents that illegal sales and displays will not be tolerated, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded at least 62 complaints relating to the illegal sale and discharge of fireworks during the first three weeks of October. That represents a significant jump from the nine complaints received over the same period in September.
The figures point to a familiar seasonal problem as residents prepare for celebrations in the weeks ahead. The City is urging the public to report illegal activity and reminding residents that fireworks displays require the appropriate permits.
Fireworks complaints rise sharply across Cape Town
During the first three weeks of September, the PECC received three complaints about the illegal sale of fireworks and six about their discharge.
In the first three weeks of October, complaints about illegal sales climbed to at least 13, while reports of illegal fireworks being set off reached at least 49.
The City has identified several areas as hotspots, including Manenberg, Eastridge, Beacon Valley, Atlantis, Heideveld, Hanover Park, Belhar and Bonteheuwel.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security Alderman JP Smith said the increase was disappointing, although it was not unexpected ahead of the annual celebrations.
While many residents support efforts to curb illegal fireworks, Smith said some communities continue to see problems in the lead-up to Guy Fawkes and Diwali, with similar concerns emerging around New Year’s Eve.
He warned that fireworks are more than a noise nuisance. Loud explosions can frighten domestic animals and cause distress in communities already affected by gun violence. They also create potential fire and injury risks, while placing additional pressure on emergency and enforcement services.
Smith has called on residents to report people selling fireworks illegally, saying credible information from the public could help authorities respond more effectively. The City also plans to increase enforcement deployments in areas that have repeatedly experienced problems.
Can you legally set off fireworks in Cape Town?
One of the City’s key reminders is that there are no designated fireworks sites for Guy Fawkes, Diwali or New Year’s Eve.
Residents should not assume that setting off fireworks in a public space or residential area is permitted simply because it is a celebratory occasion.
Under the National Explosives Act, fireworks cannot legally be discharged in an area that has not been specifically designated for that purpose. The use or detonation of fireworks inside a building or on a public thoroughfare can attract a R200 fine under Section 30 of the Act.
The City’s Community Fire Safety By-law also sets out requirements for anyone selling, storing or organising fireworks displays.
A person may not sell or store fireworks on a premises without the required fireworks certificate from the controlling authority. Organisers planning a public display must obtain the necessary permission and permits before proceeding.
If an event is expected to attract more than 200 people, or requires infrastructure to be built, an additional events permit from the City will also be required.
What permits are needed for a fireworks display?
Anyone planning a public fireworks display must first submit an application to the South African Police Service (SAPS) under the National Explosives Act and the City’s Community Fire Safety By-law.
Applications should be emailed to [email protected].
If SAPS approves the application, organisers must contact the Fire Life Safety Section of the City’s Fire and Rescue Service for the area where the display will take place. An inspection will then be carried out to assess whether the proposed site is safe.
The process is intended to identify potential fire hazards and reduce risks to people and property. Organisers must also seek permission from residents and businesses in the surrounding area and comply with the conditions imposed before and during the display.
Approval should therefore not be taken for granted, and residents cannot simply arrange a public fireworks event without following the required process.
Fines for illegal fireworks in Cape Town
The City has highlighted several penalties that may apply to people who break the rules.
Under the National Explosives Act:
- R200 fine: Using or detonating fireworks inside a building or on a public thoroughfare.
- R300 fine: Selling fireworks to a child or anyone under the age of 16.
- R300 fine: Allowing a child or person under 16 to handle fireworks without adult supervision.
The Act also prohibits importing and selling fireworks without the necessary permissions, as well as discharging them in areas that have not been specifically designated.
Under the City’s Community Fire Safety By-law, penalties include:
- R1,500 fine: Selling or storing fireworks without the required fireworks certificate.
- R1,500 fine: Holding a fireworks display or using theatrical pyrotechnics or other fireworks without the necessary permission or permit.
- R1,500 fine: Supplying fireworks to someone who does not have a valid certificate or permit.
- R1,000 fine: Failing to keep a fireworks certificate on the premises for inspection.
The City has urged residents to familiarise themselves with the requirements rather than risk penalties or put others in danger.
How to report illegal fireworks in Cape Town
Residents who witness the illegal sale or use of fireworks can report it to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre.
Reports can be made by calling 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or through the Safety and Security feature on the City of Cape Town app.
With complaints already rising ahead of Guy Fawkes and Diwali, the City is asking residents to help identify illegal activity before it puts people, pets or property at risk.
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