Pyrotechnics and fireworks (including firecrackers)

Pyrotechnics and fireworks can be an exciting feature of an event but they carry risks and must be strictly controlled to protect the public, staff, contractors, animals and surrounding property.

Before the event

If you plan to include pyrotechnics or fireworks in your event, you must follow legal and safety requirements set out by WorkSafe Victoria and City of Boroondara. Before your event, submit the following:

• A copy of the licensed pyrotechnician’s WorkSafe Operator Licence
• A notification to discharge fireworks, submitted to WorkSafe Victoria (at least 7 days before the event)
• A copy of the pyrotechnician’s Public Liability Insurance (minimum $20m)
• A detailed Risk Assessment and Emergency Management Plan covering:
  • fallout zones and exclusion areas
  • crowd management and barrier controls
  • fire safety equipment and trained fire spotters
  • communication protocols with security, event organisers and emergency services
• Evidence that local emergency services (Fire Rescue Victoria, Police, Ambulance Victoria) have been notified.
• A draft letter to notify surrounding residents and businesses about the fireworks display. We need to approve the letter and you need to distribute it at least 2 weeks before the event. We will advise the appropriate notification zone based on the location and size of the display.

Other considerations

• Fireworks and pyrotechnics are not permitted during a Total Fire Ban unless you have a valid CFA Section 40 permit.
• Consider the proximity of residential areas, animals and livestock and put in place mitigation strategies where appropriate.
• You may need to adjust the time or type of pyrotechnics to manage noise impacts.
• Keep public viewing areas at a safely distance.
• Clearly mark and secure fallout zones.
• Have clear signage, public announcements (if appropriate) and staff briefings on the fireworks display and emergency procedures.

After the display

• The pyrotechnics provider should safely collect and remove all debris.
• Inspect the site for any unexploded devices or fire risks before reopening to the public.

Due diligence when engaging contractors

While the pyrotechnician is responsible for safely conducting the display, you, as the organiser, are responsible for showing due diligence in selecting and monitoring them. Failure to do so can leave you legally and financially liable if something goes wrong.

As the event organiser, it's your responsibility to:

• Engage only reputable and licensed suppliers. You must sight and verify that the pyrotechnician holds a valid WorkSafe Operator Licence and that the business is appropriately insured. Don't accept proposals from unlicensed operators. 
• Check their documentation is current and valid. Ensure insurance, licences and risk assessments are current and specific to your event. Don't accept generic paperwork.
• Confirm experience and reputation. Only engage pyrotechnicians who have demonstrable experience with the type and scale of display you are planning. Ask for references, past event examples or Council approvals from other displays.
• Keep copies of all licences, certificates, notifications and approvals.