LAWS AND LICENSING FOR THEATRICAL PYROTECHNICS
Laws concerning Theatrical Pyrotechnic use vary not only from State to State, but locally as well. The federal laws are enforced by the BATFE (Bureau or Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives).
When it comes to Theatrical Pyro., the federal laws are pretty simple if you are a performer using pyrotechnics on stage. A person who regularly and continually mixes the compounds of Binary Theatrical Flash Powder is required by the BATFE to obtain an ATF (BATFE) Type 19, Manufacturer of Theatrical Flash Powder License. This license allows the licensee to mix and use Binary Flash Powder on a regular basis. The License also covers national usage, provided local, and State laws are followed as well.
The main concern you may have is with local
laws. The authority having jurisdiction over local laws in Theatrical Pyro is usually your local Fire Marshall. In most cases,
such as in the case in my area, before public performances, you will need to
set up a time prior to show time to have the Fire Marshall come out to the
performance site to see how and where you have your devices set up. some questions will be asked, and a written "Content of
Plans" may be requested. The Content of Plans is a Federally
suggested step, but is not always asked for by the local authority. All of this
is examined prior to loading your devices with pyrotechnic composition. (Flash Powder etc). This
usually takes only a few minutes, and is often followed by a small fee of
$10.00 - $25.00. (this can vary greatly depending on
your area) You then receive a permit that is to be kept posted at the area of
control. (Since the tragedy in
These inspections are usually fairly simple
as long as the operator of the Pyrotechnic Display shows knowledge and
competence. It is important that the Fire Marshall feels that the operator is
going to put on a completely safe display.
Your State may have a special license you may be required to obtain as well. You may be required to obtain some form of insurance. A $1,000,000 policy is not uncommon. It is highly recommended that you find out what all is needed for your area before ordering pyrotechnic equipment.
To learn more about the BATFEs Federal Laws and Regulations concerning the general subject of Pyrotechnics and Explosives you will want to obtain a copy of the ATF P 5400.7 (09/00) ("THE ORANGE BOOK"). To obtain a copy of the orange book and an application for a Type 19 License, contact your local BATFE office, or the National Distribution center @ 703/455-7801. They will send you these items free of charge.
The best book to obtain for use of Theatrical
Pyrotechnics is the NFPA 1126. This is the codes and standards book for the
National Fire Protection Association. Most of the information you will ever
need in dealing with Theatrical ("Proximate Audience") Pyrotechnics
is in this book. You can purchase that book here for $45.00. 
(out of stock) It seems very
expensive due to the fact that it is less than 20 pages long, but they are
pages that are jam packed with pretty much all the info you need, and it is the
best $45.00 you'll spend if you are serious about indoor pyro.
To receive a simple, non
copyrighted, fill-in-the-blanks, Content of Plans for just $11.00, please click
this button. (or request a free copy with
your order over $20.00) This comes with all the information you should need to
obtain a permit for firing Theatrical pyrotechnic shows. You will receive a
master copy for you to photo copy (for each permit you want to receive), along
with a sample copy and instructions on how to properly fill it out.
Also included is an instruction packet on how to properly fill out an
application to obtain a Type 19 License, incase you order a copy from the
BATFE.
Even if you plan to use pyrotechnics once, and will not be storing pyrotechnic composition, and do not need a federal license, you will most likely need to obtain a permit for that performance. The Content of Plans is a great way to help you obtain it!