The City has announced its decision to forego designated sites for fireworks this year.
The discharging of fireworks is not allowed in terms of the Community Fire Safety By-law, but the City has, for a number of years, made an exception to accommodate this practice for Guy Fawkes, Diwali and New Year’s Eve.
However, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said a number of factors made them change course this year.
“Given that there will be no designated sites this year, the City appeals to residents to please refrain from setting off fireworks. As we have indicated before, only national government has the legislative competency to ban the import, production and sale of fireworks or restrict usage by age,” said Mr Smith.
Residents, who use or detonate any fireworks in any building and public spaces, will be liable for a R200 fine. Selling fireworks to a child or anyone under the age of 16 is liable to a R300 fine; allowing a child or person under the age of 16 to handle fireworks without adult supervision is liable to a R300 fine.Â
Members of the public can report illegal sale or use of fireworks to the Public Emergency Call Centre on 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or to the South African Police Service on 10111.
