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Fireworks and fire effects

The pyrotechnician handles more of this than organisers expect, but not all of it, and the gap is where events come unstuck.

Display fireworks require a licensed operator, and the notifications that go with them run to WorkSafe and the CFA. Confirm in writing which of them your operator is lodging and which are yours, because both parties assuming the other did it is the common failure.

What applies, and when

One requirement sits under this topic. Lead times are counted back from the first public day of your event.

Fireworks / fire effects: pyrotechnician, WorkSafe and CFA

1 month before Collect from a provider

WorkSafe Victoria / CFA · WorkSafe and CFA at least 7 days prior, plan for more

Engage a licensed pyrotechnician and hold copies of their WorkSafe permits, licence, PLI and workers comp for your event day pack. Notify WorkSafe and CFA at least 7 days prior; include the display in risk and safety plans; provide a pyrotechnic safety plan to the Shire. On the day expect: continuous wind monitoring, exclusion zones with fire wardens at all perimeter points, a formal go/no-go check, on-site CFA registration, and possibly a Shire representative's formal approval before ignition. CFA approval required on Total Fire Ban days and may be withdrawn; on very high or worse fire danger days Parks Victoria land must be vacated.

Why this matters

Your pyrotechnician carries the licences, but you carry the responsibility for holding copies: WorkSafe permits, their insurance, their notifications. On the day expect wind monitoring, exclusion zones with wardens, and a formal go or no-go. Have a plan for the version of the night where the burn doesn't happen; total fire ban days can cancel it late.

Find out which of these apply to your event

Answer plain questions about your event once. Sorted Permits works out exactly which of the 47 requirements apply, when each is due, and drafts the documents for you to review.

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