Crackers licence: what a shop needs to sell fireworks
No licence, no stock. Here is what a shop needs before the first carton arrives.
The rule
Fireworks come under the Explosives Rules, 2008. Anyone storing or selling them above small household quantities needs a licence. Permanent shops hold a regular licence. Diwali stalls usually get a temporary licence for the festival season.
Who issues it
The District Collector or District Magistrate issues it, or the Commissioner of Police in cities with a police commissionerate. Some states run the application online through their e-services portal.
What offices usually ask for
- An application with the shop's address and a site plan.
- Proof of the right to use the premises (rent agreement or ownership).
- ID and address proof of the applicant.
- A no-objection from the fire service, in many districts.
- The fee, which varies by state.
When to apply
One to two months before Diwali. Temporary licences are often issued only a few weeks before the festival, so apply early and keep your stock order timed to the licence.
Check with your district
The details vary by state and district. Your local collectorate or police office has the final word. We ask for your licence on resale orders.
Bulk orders from ₹2.5 lakh
Get your wholesale quote
Tell us what you need and where. A person from our Sivakasi desk calls within 24 hours with stock, the final rate and transport to your city.
- Genuine Standard Fireworks boxes, sealed cartons
- Rates per box and per carton, far below printed MRP
- GST invoice for your business
- Licensed road transport to any city in India
More trade guides
How to start a crackers shop for Diwali
A seasonal cracker stall can pay back in three weeks, if the licence is in place and the stock mix is right.
GST on crackers: rate, HSN code and invoices
Crackers are taxed at 18% GST. A proper invoice on your purchase lets a registered shop claim it back.
Crackers shop margin: what a shop really earns
Every box has a printed MRP far above the trade rate. Very few shops sell at full MRP, so plan your margin on a discounted selling price.
What stock to buy for a crackers shop
Half your money in the fast movers, the rest spread across the items that make the bigger bills.
How bulk crackers are transported across India
Crackers go by road with carriers licensed to move fireworks. Never by courier, rail or air.
Storing crackers safely in a shop or godown
Stock that is stored well stays safe and sells. Damp or damaged crackers do neither.