Surrender of explosive materials
It is illegal to possess and use fireworks in Queensland without an authority. Fireworks bought in the Northern Territory cannot be brought into Queensland. Call the Explosives Inspectorate on 1300 739 868 to surrender them penalty free.
Explosives, fireworks, flares and ammunition are dangerous and pose risks if they are not stored and managed in a secure and safe manner and can become even more dangerous as they deteriorate with age.
If you have any type of explosive material or product - including fireworks and ammunition - that you don't want or possess illegally you are encouraged to surrender them without fear of prosecution or fines.
If you find or possess explosive material or products – do not touch them. Call the Explosives Inspectorate at any time, and we will arrange safe collection and disposal.
Fireworks
It is illegal to make, keep or use fireworks (including firecrackers) without a licence in Queensland. Unlicenced use and possession of fireworks (other than unrestricted items such as sparklers, bonbons, streamer cones or caps for toy pistols), is an offence and carries a penalty. Offenders can be fined up to $ 57,500 (400 penalty units), face 6 months’ imprisonment, and risk severe injury.
For penalty-free fireworks surrender call the Explosives Inspectorate on 1300 739 868 (24/7)
Explosives
Explosives are frequently found in deceased estates or when people move into new premises. Sheds should be checked for explosives, along with associated equipment.
Explosives items can include:
- gelignite
- detonators
- detonating cord
- boosters
- picric acid used in laboratories
- propellant powders.
For penalty-free explosives surrender call the Explosives Inspectorate on 1300 739 868 (24/7)
Ammunition
If you have small arms ammunition that you cannot legally possess, you can surrender it voluntarily without fear of prosecution.
You can:
- surrender sporting ammunition (e.g. calibres up to 19mm in brass and steel cases, brass and plastic shotgun shells) to a nominated firearms dealer, OR
- call the Explosives Inspectorate on 1300 739 868 (24/7) to arrange a penalty-free ammunition surrender.
Marine flares
You must dispose of out-of-date flares as soon as possible as their ability to function as designed is no longer assured. Expiry dates are stamped on the side of each flare.
Out-of-date marine flares can be disposed of in special collection bins provided by the Queensland Department of Transport at:
- Volunteer Marine Rescue
- Australian Volunteer Coast Guard
- Queensland Transport Maritime Safety Queensland.
Refer to the list of flare disposal locations on the Maritime Safety Queensland website.
Related links
- Explosives Act 1999
- Explosives Regulation 2017
- Read about collecting ammunition and arms fairs
- Learn about the dangers of homemade explosives
- Find out how to organise a safe and legal fireworks display