PHILIPSBURG--Persons desirous of importing, transporting or selling fireworks, or having a fireworks show at the end of this year, have until November 10 to apply for their permit.
Permit applications should be submitted to the Ministry of General Affairs at least six weeks before the activity. The application deadline for year-end fireworks has been set for November 10.
Applications must contain all the information as required according to article 9 of the Fireworks Ordinance. For the fireworks import and transport licences, there has to be a location where the fireworks will be transported.
If the fireworks are to be transported to a storage location in Dutch St. Maarten, a Hindrance Permit from the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure VROMI, will be needed for the storage location.
The Fireworks Ordinance contains the fire safety measures that have to be implemented at a fireworks storage location.
Permit application forms may be obtained at the Fire Department. The Fireworks Ordinance can be read online by searching for “Vuurwerk Besluit St Maarten.”
The import, transport, storage, sale and blasting of explosives and fireworks are regulated by the Fireworks Ordinance Vuurwerkbesluit AB2013, GT18.
The ordinance contains regulations on what types of fireworks may be imported and sold to the general public. It also contains the days that these fireworks can be used which are from December 29 to January 1.
Fireworks that are not part of the allowed consumer fireworks are considered professional and are to be imported, transported, stored and displayed only by certified pyro technicians.
Permits are needed to carry out these fireworks related activities, which can be obtained at the Ministry of General Affairs. The Fireworks Ordinance falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of General Affairs and the Fire Department.
The Fire Department advises the Minister of General Affairs on the applicants’ compliance with the ordinance and of the safety precautions regarding the activities. The Department said in a press release that these safety measures are needed to prevent incidents during transportation, storage and the sale of fireworks.
The Fire Department also ensures that fireworks that can cause major injuries are lighted by certified professionals so that the lighting and display of fireworks remains an enjoyable experience in St Maarten. Additional information regarding fireworks related permits may be obtained from the Fire Prevention Department at tel. 543-1316 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
