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Submitting an Application for Approval: Fireworks
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When submitting a firework application for approval make sure that:

  1. It is not a duplicate to a previous application
  2. You are not using the same Item name on multiple applications (if the item qualifies as a series you may want to consider a series application)
  3. The certification on the application is signed and dated
  4. The description of the device is complete (you need to specify the max powder weight, maximum effect per tube and the maximum propellant per tube)
  5. The diagram is legible and that it contains the descriptions of each component along with all dimensions

Use the Approvals database search to track the status of your applications. 

If you have concerns or questions please follow up on your application via email to the fireworks mailbox at fireworks@dot.gov. Do not send in a second application. The only time that an application should be resent is with a denial letter attached or at the request of DOT.

  • FIREWORKS@DOT.GOV - A fireworks mailbox has been created and is ready to be used. It is a delivery point for electronic firework applications and questions concerning the applications. Please use the mailbox for all correspondence concerning a firework application.
  • Companies should use the Approvals Database Search and review all information pertinent to the company ex number, product description, expiration date and any comments.

(NOT ALL INCLUSIVE)

The following is a list of common mistakes seen in firework applications submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Special Permits and Approvals:

  • A chemical name was not provided.
  • The chemical sheet contains an unknown composition(s).
  • The chemical sheet contains an unapproved chemical.
  • The chemical composition is inconsistent with an effect described.
  • The application and the chemical sheet are inconsistent in the gram weight.
  • Columns on the chemical sheet did not total 100%.
  • A chemical composition was not provided for a listed effect.
  • The device contains potassium chlorate, which is not authorized except as specified in APA 87-1 Table 3.7-1.
  • The device contains potassium chlorate without an equal or greater amount of sodium bicarbonate.
  • Improper use of restricted chemicals.
  • The reloadable shell kit contains more than the 60 grams per shell or exceeds 12 aerial shells per kit.
  • The reloadable shell kit does not indicate a launching tube and must indicate a ratio not to exceed 12 shells to 1 tube and limited to 400 grams of pyrotechnic composition.
  • The fusing is not sequential.
  • The diagram was inconsistent with the device description.
  • The report composition exceeds the acceptable limits.
  • The metal particle size was not provided.
  • The percent of nitrogen in the nitrocellulose was not provided.
  • The quantity of nitrocellulose exceeded 15 grams.
  • The device can not be approved under the APA 87-1 Standard.
  • The required information was not provided in your application. (document(s) missing)
  • The application was not signed and certified.
  • The chemical sheet did not state the Titanium particle size (mesh size).
  • The thermal stability test was not provided or missing required information.
  • The tube separation was not provided for a multiple tube device over 200 grams.
  • The applicant did not provide the designated U.S. agent of service information in accordance 49 CFR 105.40.
  • The application was dated prior to the thermal stability test.
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