Penang tightens fireworks sales rules ahead of 2027 Chinese New Year

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has introduced stricter safety conditions for fireworks traders in Penang ahead of the 2027 Chinese New Year celebrations.

The rules include a ban on sales near petrol stations and additional licensing conditions to prevent incidents that could threaten public safety.

In a statement, MBPP said applications for the 2027 Chinese New Year Seasonal Temporary Stall Licence are open from today until Dec 31, while applications for the Seasonal Temporary Stall Licence for Fireworks Sales are open from today until Nov 30.

The operating period for seasonal temporary stalls is permitted from Jan 13 to Feb 20, 2027, while fireworks sales are only allowed from Jan 13 to Feb 11, 2027, subject to police conditions.

"The Seasonal Temporary Stall Licence and the Fireworks Sales Licence are two separate licences, and approval of a temporary stall licence does not automatically allow traders to sell fireworks.

"Traders intending to sell fireworks must obtain separate approval and permits from the police," MBPP said.

The council said traders are not allowed to operate near high-risk areas such as petrol stations or other locations deemed unsuitable by authorities. The sales location must also be approved by the council.

MBPP said traders must prepare suitable fire extinguishing equipment, ensure fireworks storage complies with safety conditions and police directives, and keep the sales area clean and free from unrelated flammable materials.

Smoking, burning, or testing fireworks at the sales site is strictly prohibited, while failure to produce or comply with police permits may result in the MBPP licence being revoked without further notice.

"All traders must comply with the approved site size and ensure business items, including chairs and tables, are placed within the permitted stall area to avoid obstructing the public.

"For food stalls, traders and assistants must have valid anti-typhoid vaccinations, avoid direct contact with food, and maintain personal hygiene at all times.

"The use of polystyrene containers for packaging or food displays is also prohibited. MBPP also encourages cashless transactions, the practice of bringing one's own bags, reducing single-use plastics, and adhering to the ban on plastic straws," MBPP said.

The council said foreigners are not permitted to apply for or operate businesses under either licence category.

It said any business activities conducted without MBPP approval or in breach of licence conditions will face appropriate action, including revocation of licences.

Both applications can be submitted online through the ulesen.mbpp.gov.my portal.