Public Fireworks Display Permit

The Public Fireworks Display permit applies to the use of fireworks for a public display conducted by certified operators.

Application Materials

Before applying for this permit, please have the following materials ready:

I. Credentials

1. Provide a copy of ATF/Federal Explosive Permit

2. Provide a copy of Pyrotechnic/Public Display certifications of onsite operator in charge of the display.

II. Site Plan

Provide a detailed layout of the entire fireworks display area. This should include the display site, discharge site, fallout area, preparation area, storage area, spectator area, along with all required separation distances in compliance with NFPA 1123:

1. Display site –Includes minimum secured diameter of site, vertical mortar, angled mortars offset justification, mortars to special hazards, all buildings on or near the site, nearby roadways, and overhead obstructions and utilities.

2. Discharge (launch) site – Dimension of this site and the location of all devices to be used during the show, their required separation distances and location of controllers.

3. Fallout area: Layout and dimensions including offset measurements.

4. Spectator viewing area – Includes the distance (in feet) the audience will be restrained from the display site.

III. Device List

Submit a detailed list of all fireworks devices to be used in the show.

1. Identify the size, number, and type of each device, as well as its classification, such as aerial shell, cake, mine, salute, ground display piece, comet, or lance.

2. Specify the type of match to be used and summary of device timing (i.e. chain fused or individually fired).

3. Additionally, all applicable show devices/features must include:

• Flame effects / Fireballs – Detailed list of all flame effects to be used during the show, classification of each, such as gas mine, ghost mine, or other similar effect.
• Gas mines – Detailed list of lift charges to be used including weight in grams, type of powder, sealing method of the charge, fuel type, and type of match used.
• Mortars for flame effects - Diagram showing the mortar construction details including the pipe schedule size, wall thickness, height, width, and the method used to secure the mortar.
• Mortar racks – Diagram showing the rack configuration and construction including the rack elevation, location (i.e. ground, trailer, or stand), the construction elements of the rack, and the mortar pipe schedule details including type, size, wall thickness, height, width, and rack securing methods.

IV. Safety Plan

Written procedure for safety protocols maintained before, during, and after display for operators & spectators.

1. Emergency response activity for stopping the show in the event of catastrophic failure, operator injury, hazardous debris entering the audience, or any other hazardous condition identified by the AHJ.

2. Crowd control management including actions to be taken if a shell fails to ignite, fails to discharge, malfunctions, or is found unfired during the post-display sweep, including hazard marking, reporting, and disposal procedures.

3. Safety equipment and placement for protection of facilities/structures.

4. PPE (entering discharge site requires full PPE gear).

5. Show Schedule - Include show date and times (Set up, display, cool down period and clean up).

6. Firework Disposal Plan

V. Financial Responsibility Documents

1. Certificate of Insurance: Applicants shall provide a proposed amount of liability insurance coverage for the public fireworks display as part of the permit application. Coverage is based on industry coverage standards for event type and factors including, but not limited to, the type and quantity of fireworks, duration of the display, location, proximity to structures and/or vegetation, anticipated crowd size, and prevailing or forecasted weather and climate conditions. Proposed coverage shall be approved by the fire department.

• Certificate shall list City of Boise and (identified fire district if applicable) as certificate holder
• Certificate shall list City of Boise and (identified fire district if applicable) as additional insured

2. Applicants shall complete the Insurance, Indemnification and Financial Responsibility Agreement and submit with permit documents.

Download Agreement