Tamil Nadu issues fire safety NOCs for 10,244 temporary firecracker shops

According to official figures, the department received 12,098 applications from traders seeking permission to set up temporary outlets. Of these, 940 applications were rejected for failing to meet prescribed safety requirements, while 914 applications were pending scrutiny as of November 3.

The NOC issued by the Fire and Rescue Services Department is only a preliminary clearance and does not, by itself, authorise traders to operate. Applicants must obtain separate licences from the competent authorities, including the District Revenue Officer in the districts and the Commissioner of Police in cities.

The department has also prescribed safety conditions for temporary shops. Firecrackers must be stored in sheds made of non-combustible materials, with at least three metres between sheds and a minimum distance of 50 metres from protected structures. The use of oil lamps, gas lamps and other naked flames inside shops and within the designated safety zones is prohibited.

Authorities have also warned that the NOC will be cancelled if imported Chinese-made fireworks are found stocked or sold at the premises, with legal action to follow.

The clearances are part of the State's preparations to regulate temporary firecracker sales and minimise fire-related risks during the festive season.