Due to a sharp increase in complaints regarding fireworks preceding the Diwali and Guy Fawkes Day holidays, the City of Cape Town has issued a warning to residents against the illegal sale and display of pyrotechnics.
The City's Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded at least 62 complaints related to the illegal sale and detonation of fireworks during the first three weeks of October. This figure significantly exceeds the nine complaints received during the same period in September.
These figures indicate a typical seasonal problem that arises as residents prepare for upcoming celebrations. The City strongly urges the public to report any illegal activities and reminds residents of the necessity of obtaining appropriate permits for fireworks displays.
In the first three weeks of September, PECC received three reports of illegal fireworks sales and six of their use. Meanwhile, in the first three weeks of October, the number of complaints about illegal sales increased to at least 13, and reports of firework launches reached at least 49.
The City has identified several areas as high-risk hotspots, including Manenberg, Istridge, Beacon Valley, Atlantis, Heidelberg, Hanover Park, Bellhar, and Bontehuwel.
Alderman J.P. Smith, a member of the Majority Committee on Safety and Security, expressed disappointment over the rise in violations, although he noted that this was not unexpected before the annual celebrations. Smith emphasized that despite support for efforts to curb illegal fireworks among many residents, some communities continue to face issues ahead of Guy Fawkes Day and Diwali, as well as leading up to New Year's.
He warned that fireworks pose not only noise pollution. Loud explosions can frighten domestic animals and cause stress in communities already suffering from firearm violence. Furthermore, they create potential risks of fire and injury, increasing the burden on emergency services and law enforcement agencies.
Smith called on residents to report individuals involved in the illegal sale of fireworks, noting that accurate information from the public will help authorities act more effectively. The City also intends to increase patrols in areas where problems have occurred repeatedly.
One of the City's key reminders is the absence of designated locations for launching fireworks during Guy Fawkes Day, Diwali, or New Year's. Residents must not assume that using fireworks in public or residential spaces is permitted simply because it is a holiday.
According to the National Explosives Act, fireworks cannot be legally used in places not specifically designated for this purpose. Using or detonating fireworks inside a building or on a public road may result in a fine of R200 under Section 30 of the Act.
The City's local community fire safety by-law also sets requirements for everyone involved in selling, storing, or organizing fireworks shows. An individual is not entitled to sell or store fireworks on premises without the required fireworks certificate from the controlling authority. Organizers of public events are obliged to obtain necessary permits and approvals before commencing work.
If an event is planned for more than 200 people or requires infrastructure construction, an additional event permit from the City will be required. Anyone planning a public fireworks show must first apply to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in accordance with the National Explosives Act and the City's Local Community Fire Safety By-law. Applications should be sent via email to capetown.explosives.cmrd@saps.gov.za.
After the application is approved by SAPS, organizers must contact the City's Fire and Rescue Department for the area of the show. A site inspection will then be conducted to assess the safety of the proposed location. This process is designed to identify potential fire hazards and mitigate risks to people and property. Organizers must also obtain consent from residents and businesses in the surrounding area and adhere to conditions set before and during the display.
Thus, approval is not automatic, and residents cannot simply organize a public fireworks event without following the established procedure.
The City pointed out several fines that can be imposed on rule violators. The Act also prohibits the import and sale of fireworks without the necessary permits, as well as their use in non-designated areas.
The City strongly urges residents to familiarize themselves with the requirements instead of risking fines or endangering others. 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 mobile phone or through the Safety and Security feature in the City of Cape Town app.