That time of the year has arrived where popular festivals and religious holidays are celebrated in their own traditional way. Not everyone is aware of the bylaws that govern the use of fire works.
The City of Johannesburg believes it is essential for residents to be aware of how to celebrate these festivals and religious holidays responsibly without breaking the law.
Emergency Management Services spokesperson Nana Radebe said that those found guilty of breaking the law will have to pay a R 10 000 fine. “If they get caught, they will be charged for contravention of the bylaws,” she said.
In accordance to the City’s bylaws no individual can use fireworks within 500m of petrol stations, explosive storage places, inside any building and in any public space.
No one under the age of 16 is permitted to purchase or light fireworks without adult supervision. In order to be granted permission to use fireworks, an application has to be submitted to the chief fire officer who belongs to that particular region 14 days before. This gives other residents the opportunity to respond if they agree or disagree with the application.
The law also applies when using fireworks in your backyard where residents are required to send an outline plan of the house in the application process.
According to the City’s bylaws, there are specific times when fireworks can be lit by residents. Read more on the website.
Details:In an emergency, call City Emergency Connect, 011 375 59 11; Nationwide emergency response 10 111.
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