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Explosives Dealer Licenses

(retail, wholesale, dealer, possess, store)

This license allows the sale, possession, storage, or distribution of explosives in Maryland.

Required background checks

  • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) background and fingerprint check required
  • Maryland criminal records check required

Fingerprinting

All Maryland residents must use electronic (LiveScan) fingerprinting through an approved provider. Call 410-859-7152 to receive:

  • Livescan pre-registration form
  • Approved fingerprint service locations

Information and documentation required for a license

Failure to provide the required documentation will result in denial of application.

  • Type of explosive and the purpose for which the explosives will be used
  • A copy of the ATF permit number
  • If the applicant is:
    • an individual, the citizenship of the individual
    • a partnership, association, or corporation, the names, addresses, and citizenship of the partners of the partnership or officers and directors of the association or corporation
  • Proof of liability insurance in the amount that the State Fire Prevention Commission sets
  • The number of a workers’ compensation insurance policy or binder
  • A certificate of compliance with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act
  • Complete sets of legible fingerprints for each applicant, officer, agent, or employee handling explosives

Application submission

  • Applications sent by the certified fireworks company may be submitted by:
    • U.S. Mail: Office of the State Fire Marshal P.O. Box 436 Linthicum, MD 21090
    • Email:  [email protected]
  • Pay the application fee online, as calculated below:
    • Retail: $ 75.00

    • Users: $150.00 

    • Wholesale / Retail $300.00 

    • Magazines (Class A 500 lbs or more): $150.00 

    • Magazines (Class B less than 500 lbs): $ 75.00 

      • Type of License: = $
        No. of Magazines: _____ @ $75.00 _____ @ $150 = $
        No. of Vehicles: _____ @ $25.00 = $

  • Have the application notarized

License to Deal in Explosives Application

Application processing time

  • New: allow 3-5 business days for review and up to 30 days for final issuance. An inspection of the magazines must be conducted prior to the final issuance of this license.  

Renewal: required every 3 years. Allow 10 to 30 days for final issuance.