Fireworks FAQs
- What information should be included with the application?
- May I submit the application by email?
- May I submit the application in one file? What is the required format?
- Do I need to include the denial letter with an application that is being resubmitted?
- What are the common reasons why application is rejected or denied?
- Do I need a U.S. Designated Agent prior to submitting an application?
- How can I find the status of an application?
- Can the Thermal Stability be conducted and dated the same date as the application?
- Where can I find information on applying for an EX number?
- Can a roman candle device contain a report?
- Is a helicopter device required to have a propeller or blade attached?
- Why are the APA 87-1 A, B, and C standards separate?
- What types of fireworks can a Fireworks Certification Agency (FCA) process?
- If I have a specific fireworks question whom can I contact?
- What information should be included with the application?
The application should include a Cover letter (one Cover Sheet required for multiple applications submitted at the same time), the Request application, Chemical Composition Sheet and Diagram. Do not staple applications.
- May I submit the application by email?
You may submit one application per email to fireworks@dot.gov.
- May I submit the application in one file? What is the required format?
It is recommended that you submit the application in two or more files. The application itself must be in one file and the Chemical Composition List and Diagram may be in one or more supplementary files. You may submit these files in MS Word, MS Excel, or PDF format. If you submit files which cannot be opened, we will return the email to you.
- Do I need to include the denial letter with an application that is being resubmitted?
Yes, a complete application must be submitted with the denial letter.
- What are the common reasons why application is rejected or denied?
There are many reasons why emails are returned. The application is not signed (in blue or black ink) in English. Diagrams and/or chemical composition sheets are missing. More than one application is attached to a single email or the application including the diagram and chemical composition sheets are submitted in a single file.
- Do I need a U.S. Designated Agent prior to submitting an application?
Yes. Foreign applicants must provide a designation of agent for service in accordance with 49 CFR section 107.705(a)(5) and 105.40.
- How can I find the status of an application?
Go to the Approvals Data Search link to search for the status of applications for your company.
- Can the Thermal Stability be conducted and dated the same date as the application?
No. The thermal stability test takes 48 hours to complete and is required to be completed prior to the Certified Application date.
- Where can I find information on applying for an EX number?
Information regarding fireworks, the approval process for an EX application, sample application, as well as, additional information can be found on the PHMSA website.
- Can a roman candle device contain a report?
Yes.
- Is a helicopter device required to have a propeller or blade attached?
Yes, a helicopter device is required to have a propeller or blade attached.
- Why are the APA 87-1 A, B, and C standards separate?
APA 87-1A standard covers consumer fireworks, UN0336 1.4G
APA 87-1B standard covers display fireworks, UN0335, 1.3G, for professional use only
APA 87-1C standard covers entertainment industry and technical pyrotechnics, UN0431, 1.4G and UN0336 1.4G for professional use only. - What types of fireworks can a Fireworks Certification Agency (FCA) process?
FCA can only process consumer fireworks that meet the requirements of the 2018 APA 87-1A standard.
- If I have a specific fireworks question whom can I contact?
Email: Fireworks@dot.gov or PHMSA HM Information Center at: Infocntr@dot.gov
Phone: Information Center at 800-467-4922
PHH-24 Energetic Materials at: 202-366-4545