With Diwali (20 October) and Guy Fawkes (5 November) fast approaching, the City of Cape Town has stepped up enforcement efforts to prevent the illegal sale and discharge of fireworks, warning residents that no fireworks will be allowed without formal approval.
The City has confirmed that no designated fireworks sites will be available for Diwali, Guy Fawkes, or even New Year’s Eve, continuing a policy adopted in recent years due to growing safety concerns and public outcry over the impact on animals and vulnerable communities.
Unauthorised sales
“Fireworks are allowed only where formal applications for such displays have been approved,” said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.
He added that unauthorised sales and use of fireworks would be met with firm action from law enforcement.
Handling of fireworks by minors under 16 is prohibited, and sky lanterns remain banned due to their fire hazard.
The City appealed for public cooperation, emphasising the trauma fireworks cause to pets, communities affected by gun violence, and the strain on emergency services.
The City stressed that these actions are not aimed at restricting celebration but at ensuring community safety, protecting animals, and reducing the risk of fires.
“These measures are about making sure festivities do not come at the expense of public safety or the environment,” the City said.
City-Wide Safety Operations Continue
In the lead-up to the festive season, the City’s law enforcement agencies have continued their broader public safety push:
- Metro Police made 114 arrests, including 19 for drunk driving and 58 for drug-related offences, also seizing firearms and ammunition
- Traffic Services recorded 32 283 traffic violations, made 22 arrests, and impounded 255 taxis
- Law Enforcement issued over 11 700 notices and made 149 arrests
Residents are urged to report illegal firework activity to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialling 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone.
