[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 27, Volume 1, Parts 1 to 199] [Revised as of April 1, 1999] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 27CFR55] [Page 730-776] TITLE 27--ALCOHOL, TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND FIREARMS CHAPTER I--BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND FIREARMS, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY PART 55--COMMERCE IN EXPLOSIVES Subpart A--Introduction Sec. 55.1 Scope of regulations. 55.2 Relation to other provisions of law. Subpart B--Definitions 55.11 Meaning of terms. Subpart C--Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions 55.21 Forms prescribed. 55.22 Alternate methods or procedures; emergency variations from requirements. 55.23 List of explosive materials. 55.24 Right of entry and examination. 55.25 Disclosure of information. 55.26 Prohibited shipment, transportation, receipt, possession, or distribution of explosive materials. [[Page 731]] 55.27 Out-of-State disposition of explosive materials. 55.28 Stolen explosive materials. 55.29 Unlawful storage. 55.30 Reporting theft or loss of explosive materials. 55.31 Inspection of site of accidents or fires; right of entry. 55.32 Special explosive devices. Subpart D--Licenses and Permits 55.41 General. 55.42 License fees. 55.43 Permit fees. 55.44 License or permit fee not refundable. 55.45 Original license or permit. 55.46 Renewal of license or permit. 55.47 Insufficient fee. 55.48 Abandoned application. 55.49 Issuance of license or permit. 55.50 Correction of error on license or permit. 55.51 Duration of license or permit. 55.52 Limitations on license or permit. 55.53 License and permit not transferable. 55.54 Change of address. 55.55 Change in class of explosive materials. 55.56 Change in trade name. 55.57 Change of control. 55.58 Continuing partnerships. 55.59 Right of succession by certain persons. 55.60 Certain continuances of business or operations. 55.61 Discontinuance of business or operations. 55.62 State or other law. 55.63 Explosives magazine changes. Subpart E--License and Permit Proceedings 55.71 Opportunity for compliance. 55.72 Denial of initial application. 55.73 Hearing after initial application is denied. 55.74 Denial of renewal application or revocation of license or permit. 55.75 Hearing after denial of renewal application or revocation of license or permit. 55.76 Action by regional director (compliance). 55.77 Designated place of hearing. 55.78 Representation at a hearing. 55.79 Appeal on petition to the Director. 55.80 Court review. 55.81 Service on applicant, licensee, or permittee. 55.82 Provisions of part 200 made applicable. 55.83 Operations by licensees or permittees after notice of denial or revocation. Subpart F--Conduct of Business or Operations 55.101 Posting of license or permit. 55.102 Authorized operations by permittees. 55.103 Transactions among licensees/permittees. 55.104 Certified copy of license or permit. 55.105 Distributions to nonlicensees and nonpermittees. 55.106 Certain prohibited distributions. 55.107 Record of transactions. 55.108 Importation. 55.109 Identification of explosive materials. Subpart G--Records and Reports 55.121 General. 55.122 Records maintained by licensed importers. 55.123 Records maintained by licensed manufacturers. 55.124 Records maintained by licensed dealers. 55.125 Records maintained by permittees. 55.126 Explosives transaction record. 55.127 Daily summary of magazine transactions. 55.128 Discontinuance of business. 55.129 Exportation. 55.130 [Reserved] Subpart H--Exemptions 55.141 Exemptions. 55.142 Relief from disabilities incurred by indictment, information or conviction. Subpart I--Unlawful Acts, Penalties, Seizures, and Forfeitures 55.161 Engaging in business without a license. 55.162 False statement or representation. 55.163 False entry in record. 55.164 Unlawful storage. 55.165 Failure to report theft or loss. 55.166 Seizure or forfeiture. Subpart J--Marking of Plastic Explosives 55.180 Prohibitions relating to unmarked plastic explosives. 55.181 Reporting of plastic explosives. 55.182 Exceptions. 55.183 Importations of plastic explosives on or after April 24, 1997. 55.184 Statements of process and samples. 55.185 Criminal sanctions. 55.186 Seizure or forfeiture. Subpart K--Storage 55.201 General. 55.202 Classes of explosive materials. 55.203 Types of magazines. 55.204 Inspection of magazines. 55.205 Movement of explosive materials. 55.206 Location of magazines. 55.207 Construction of type 1 magazines. 55.208 Construction of type 2 magazines. 55.209 Construction of type 3 magazines. 55.210 Construction of type 4 magazines. [[Page 732]] 55.211 Construction of type 5 magazines. 55.212 Smoking and open flames. 55.213 Quantity and storage restrictions. 55.214 Storage within types 1, 2, 3, and 4 magazines. 55.215 Housekeeping. 55.216 Repair of magazines. 55.217 Lighting. 55.218 Table of distances for storage of explosive materials. 55.219 Table of distances for storage of low explosives. 55.220 Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. 55.221 Requirements for display fireworks, pyrotechnic compositions, and explosive materials used in assembling fireworks or articles pyrotechnic. 55.222 Table of distances between fireworks process buildings and between fireworks process and fireworks nonprocess buildings. 55.223 Table of distances between fireworks process buildings and other specified areas. 55.224 Table of distances for the storage of display fireworks (except bulk salutes). Authority: 18 U.S.C. 847. Source: T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, unless otherwise noted. Subpart A--Introduction Sec. 55.1 Scope of regulations. (a) In general. The regulations contained in this part relate to commerce in explosives and implement Title XI, Regulation of Explosives (18 U.S.C. Chapter 40; 84 Stat. 952), of the Organized Crime Control Act of 1970 (84 Stat. 922), Public Law 103-322 (108 Stat. 1796), and Public Law 104-132 (110 Stat. 1214). (b) Procedural and substantive requirements. This part contains the procedural and substantive requirements relative to: (1) The interstate or foreign commerce in explosive materials; (2) The licensing of manufacturers and importers of, and dealers in, explosive materials; (3) The issuance of user permits; (4) The conduct of business by licensees and operations by permittees; (5) The storage of explosive materials; (6) The records and reports required of licensees and permittees; (7) Relief from disabilities under this part; (8) Exemptions, unlawful acts, penalties, seizures, and forfeitures; and (9) The marking of plastic explosives. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-363, 60 FR 17449, Apr. 6, 1995; T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997] Sec. 55.2 Relation to other provisions of law. The provisions in this part are in addition to, and are not in lieu of, any other provision of law, or regulations, respecting commerce in explosive materials. For regulations applicable to commerce in firearms and ammunition, see Part 178 of this chapter. For regulations applicable to traffic in machine guns, destructive devices, and certain other firearms, see Part 179 of this chapter. For statutes applicable to the registration and licensing of persons engaged in the business of manufacturing, importing or exporting arms, ammunition, or implements of war, see section 38 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2778), and regulations of Part 47 of this chapter and in Parts 121 through 128 of Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations. For statutes applicable to nonmailable materials, see 18 U.S.C. 1716 and implementing regulations. For statutes applicable to water quality standards, see 33 U.S.C. 1341. Subpart B--Definitions Sec. 55.11 Meaning of terms. When used in this part, terms are defined as follows in this section. Words in the plural form include the singular, and vice versa, and words indicating the masculine gender include the feminine. The terms ``includes'' and ``including'' do not exclude other things not named which are in the same general class or are otherwise within the scope of the term defined. Act. 18 U.S.C. Chapter 40. Ammunition. Small arms ammunition or cartridge cases, primers, bullets, or smokeless propellants designed for use in small arms, including percussion caps, and 3/32 inch and other external burning pyrotechnic hobby fuses. The term does not include black powder. Approved storage facility. A place where explosive materials are stored, [[Page 733]] consisting of one or more approved magazines, conforming to the requirements of this part and covered by a license or permit issued under this part. Articles pyrotechnic. Pyrotechnic devices for professional use similar to consumer fireworks in chemical composition and construction but not intended for consumer use. Such articles meeting the weight limits for consumer fireworks but not labeled as such and classified by U.S. Department of Transportation regulations in 49 CFR 172.101 as UN0431 or UN0432. Artificial barricade. An artificial mound or revetted wall of earth of a minimum thickness of three feet, or any other approved barricade that offers equivalent protection. ATF officer. An officer or employee of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) authorized to perform any function relating to the administration or enforcement of this part. Authority having jurisdiction for fire safety. The fire department having jurisdiction over sites where explosives are manufactured or stored. Barricaded. The effective screening of a magazine containing explosive materials from another magazine, a building, a railway, or a highway, either by a natural barricade or by a artificial barricade. To be properly barricaded, a straight line from the top of any sidewall of the magazine containing explosive materials to the eave line of any other magazine or building, or to a point 12 feet above the center of a railway or highway, will pass through the natural or artificial barricade. Blasting agent. Any material or mixture, consisting of fuel and oxidizer, that is intended for blasting and not otherwise defined as an explosive; if the finished product, as mixed for use or shipment, cannot be detonated by means of a number 8 test blasting cap when unconfined. A number 8 test blasting cap is one containing 2 grams of a mixture of 80 percent mercury fulminate and 20 percent potassium chlorate, or a blasting cap of equivalent strength. An equivalent strength cap comprises 0.40-0.45 grams of PETN base charge pressed in an aluminum shell with bottom thickness not to exceed to 0.03 of an inch, to a specific gravity of not less than 1.4 g/cc., and primed with standard weights of primer depending on the manufacturer. Bulk salutes. Salute components prior to final assembly into aerial shells, and finished salute shells held separately prior to being packed with other types of display fireworks. Bullet-sensitive explosive materials. Explosive materials that can be exploded by 150-grain M2 ball ammunition having a nominal muzzle velocity of 2700 fps (824 mps) when fired from a .30 caliber rifle at a distance of 100 ft (30.5 m), measured perpendicular. The test material is at a temperature of 70 to 75 degrees F (21 to 24 degrees C) and is placed against a \1/2\ inch (12.4 mm) steel backing plate. Bureau. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Department of the Treasury, Washington, DC. Business premises. When used with respect to a manufacturer, importer, or dealer, the property on which explosive materials are manufactured, imported, stored or distributed. The premises include the property where the records of a manufacturer, importer, or dealer are kept if different than the premises where explosive materials are manufactured, imported, stored or distributed. When used with respect to a user of explosive materials, the property on which the explosive materials are received or stored. The premises includes the property where the records of the users are kept if different than the premises where explosive materials are received or stored. Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center. The AFT official responsible for the issuance and renewal of licenses and permits under this part. Consumer fireworks. Any small firework device designed to produce visible effects by combustion and which must comply with the construction, chemical composition, and labeling regulations of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, as set forth in title 16, Code of Federal Regulations, parts 1500 and 1507. Some small devices designed to produce audible effects are included, such as whistling devices, ground devices containing 50 mg or less of explosive materials, and aerial devices containing 130 mg or less of explosive materials. Consumer fireworks are classified as fireworks UN0336, and [[Page 734]] UN0337 by the U.S. Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 172.101. This term does not include fused setpieces containing components which together exceed 50 mg of salute powder. Crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Any offense for which the maximum penalty, whether or not imposed, is capital punishment or imprisonment in excess of one year. The term does not include (a) any Federal or State offenses pertaining to antitrust violations, unfair trade practices, restraints of trade, or (b) any State offense (other than one involving a firearm or explosive) classified by the laws of the State as a misdemeanor and punishable by a term of imprisonment of two years or less. Customs officer. Any officer of the Customs Service or any commissioned, warrant, or petty officer of the Coast Guard, or any agent or other person authorized to perform the duties of an officer of the Customs Service. Dealer. Any person engaged in the business of distributing explosive materials at wholesale or retail. Detonator. Any device containing a detonating charge that is used for initiating detonation in an explosive. The term includes, but is not limited to, electric blasting caps of instantaneous and delay types, blasting caps for use with safety fuses, detonating-cord delay connectors, and nonelectric instantaneous and delay blasting caps. Director. The Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Department of the Treasury, Washington, DC. Display fireworks. Large fireworks designed primarily to produce visible or audible effects by combustion, deflagration, or detonation. This term includes, but is not limited to, salutes containing more than 2 grains (130 mg) of explosive materials, aerial shells containing more than 40 grams of pyrotechnic compositions, and other display pieces which exceed the limits of explosive materials for classification as ``consumer fireworks.'' Display fireworks are classified as fireworks UN0333, UN0334 or UN0335 by the U.S. Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 172.101. This term also includes fused setpieces containing components which together exceed 50 mg of salute powder. Distribute. To sell, issue, give, transfer, or otherwise dispose of. The term does not include a mere change of possession from a person to his agent or employee in connection with the agency or employment. Executed under penalties of perjury. Signed with the required declaration under the penalties of perjury as provided on or with respect to the return, form, or other document or, where no form of declaration is required, with the declaration: ``I declare under the penalties of perjury that this--(insert type of document, such as, statement, application, request, certificate), including the documents submitted in support thereof, has been examined by me and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, is true, correct, and complete''. Explosive actuated device. Any tool or special mechanized device which is actuated by explosives, but not a propellent actuated device. Explosive materials. Explosives, blasting agents, water gels and detonators. Explosive materials include, but are not limited to, all items ``in the List of Explosive Materials'' provided for in Sec. 55.23. Explosives. Any chemical compound, mixture, or device, the primary or common purpose of which is to function by explosion. The term includes, but is not limited to, dynamite and other high explosives, black powder, pellet powder, initiating explosives, detonators, safety fuses, squibs, detonating cord, igniter cord, and igniters. Fireworks. Any composition or device designed to produce a visible or an audible effect by combustion, deflagration, or detonation, and which meets the definition of ``consumer fireworks'' or ``display fireworks'' as defined by this section. Fireworks mixing building. Any building or area used for mixing and blending pyrotechnic compositions except wet sparkler mix. Fireworks nonprocess building. Any office building or other building or area in a fireworks plant where no fireworks, pyrotechnic compositions or explosive materials are processed or stored. Fireworks plant. All land and buildings thereon used for or in connection [[Page 735]] with the assembly or processing of fireworks, including warehouses used with or in connection with fireworks plant operations. Fireworks plant warehouse. Any building or structure used exclusively for the storage of materials which are neither explosive materials nor pyrotechnic compositions used to manufacture or assemble fireworks. Fireworks process building. Any mixing building; any building in which pyrotechnic compositions or explosive materials is pressed or otherwise prepared for finished and assembly; or any finishing or assembly building. Fireworks shipping building. A building used for the packing of assorted display fireworks into shipping cartons for individual public displays and for the loading of packaged displays for shipment to purchasers. Flash powder. An explosive material intended to produce an audible report and a flash of light when ignited which includes but is not limited to oxidizers such as potassium chlorate or potassium perchlorate, and fuels such as sulfur or aluminum powder. Fugitive from justice. Any person who has fled from the jurisdiction of any court of record to avoid prosecution for any crime or to avoid giving testimony in any criminal proceeding. The term also includes any person who has been convicted of any crime and has fled to avoid imprisonment. Hardwood. Oak, maple, ash, hickory, or other hard wood, free from loose knots, spaces, or similar defects. Highway. Any public street, public alley, or public road, including a privately financed, constructed, or maintained road that is regularly and openly traveled by the general public. Importer. Any person engaged in the business of importing or bringing explosive materials into the United States for purposes of sale or distribution. Indictment. Includes an indictment or information in any court under which a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year may be prosecuted. Inhabited building. Any building regularly occupied in whole or in part as a habitation for human beings, or any church, schoolhouse, railroad station, store, or other structure where people are accustomed to assemble, except any building occupied in connection with the manufacture, transportation, storage, or use of explosive materials. Interstate or foreign commerce. Commerce between any place in a State and any place outside of that State, or within any possession of the United States or the District of Columbia, and commerce between places within the same State but through any place outside of that State. Licensed dealer. A dealer licensed under this part. Licensed importer. An importer licensed under this part. Licensed manufacturer. A manufacturer licensed under this part to engage in the business of manufacturing explosive materials for purposes of sale or distribution or for his own use. Licensee. Any importer, manufacturer, or dealer licensed under this part. Magazine. Any building or structure, other than an explosives manufacturing building, used for storage of explosive materials. Manufacturer. Any person engaged in the business of manufacturing explosive materials for purposes of sale or distribution or for his own use. Mass detonation (mass explosion). Explosive materials mass detonate (mass explode) when a unit or any part of a larger quantity of explosive material explodes and causes all or a substantial part of the remaining material to detonate or explode. Natural barricade. Natural features of the ground, such as hills, or timber of sufficient density that the surrounding exposures which require protection cannot be seen from the magazine when the trees are bare of leaves. Number 8 test blasting cap. (See definition of ``blasting agent.'') Permittee. Any user of explosives for lawful purpose, who has obtained a user permit under this part. Person. Any individual, corporation, company, association, firm, partnership, society, or joint stock company. Plywood. Exterior, construction grade (laminated wood) plywood. [[Page 736]] Propellant actuated device. Any tool or special mechanized device or gas generator system which is actuated by a propellant or which releases and directs work through a propellant charge. Pyrotechnic compositions. A chemical mixture which, upon burning and without explosion, produces visible, brilliant displays, bright lights, or sounds. Railway. Any steam, electric, or other railroad or railway which carries passengers for hire. Region. A geographical region of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Regional director (compliance). The principal regional official responsible for administering regulations in this part. Salute. An aerial shell, classified as a display firework, that contains a charge of flash powder and is designed to produce a flash of light and a loud report as the pyrotechnic effect. Screen barricade. Any barrier that will contain the embers and debris from a fire or deflagration in a process building, thus preventing propagation of fire to other buildings or areas. Such barriers shall be constructed of metal roofing, \1/4\ to \1/2\ inch (6 to 13 mm) mesh screen, or equivalent material. The barrier extends from floor level to a height such that a straight line from the top of any side wall of the donor building to the eave line of any exposed building intercepts the screen at a point not less than 5 feet (1.5 m) from the top of the screen. The top 5 feet (1.5 m) of the screen is inclined towards the donor building at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees. Softwood. Fir, pine, or other soft wood, free from loose knots, spaces, or similar defects. State. A State of the United States. The term includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the possessions of the United States. State of residence. The State in which an individual regularly resides or maintains his home. Temporary stay in a State does not make the State of temporary stay the State of residence. Theatrical flash powder. Flash powder commercially manufactured in premeasured kits not exceeding 1 ounce and mixed immediately prior to use and intended for use in theatrical shows, stage plays, band concerts, magic acts, thrill shows, and clown acts in circuses. U.S.C. The United States Code. User-limited permit. A user permit valid only for a single purchase transaction, a new permit being required for a subsequent purchase transaction. User permit. A permit issued to a person authorizing him (a) to acquire for his own use explosive materials from a licensee in a State other than the State in which he resides or from a foreign country, and (b) to transport explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce. Water gels. Explosives or blasting agents that contain a substantial proportion of water. (18 U.S.C. 847 (84 Stat. 959); 18 U.S.C. 926 (82 Stat. 1226) [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-92, 46 FR 46916, Sept. 23, 1981; T.D. ATF-200, 50 FR 10497, Mar. 15, 1985; T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53053, Dec. 27, 1989; T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3720, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. ATF-314, 56 FR 49140, Sept. 27, 1991; T.D. ATF-382, 61 FR 38084, July 23, 1996; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45001, Aug. 24, 1998] Subpart C--Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions Sec. 55.21 Forms prescribed. (a) The Director is authorized to prescribe all forms required by this part. All of the information called for in each form shall be furnished as indicated by the headings on the form and the instructions on or pertaining to the form. In addition, information called for in each form shall be furnished as required by this part. (b) Requests for forms should be mailed to the ATF Distribution Center, 7943 Angus Court, Springfield, Virginia 22153. [T.D. ATF-92, 46 FR 46916, Sept. 23, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-249, 52 FR 5961, Feb. 27, 1987; T.D. 372, 61 FR 20724, May 8, 1996] Sec. 55.22 Alternate methods or procedures; emergency variations from requirements. (a) Alternate methods or procedures. The permittee or licensee, on specific approval by the Director as provided by this paragraph, may use an alternate [[Page 737]] method or procedure in lieu of a method or procedure specifically prescribed in this part. The Director may approve an alternate method or procedure, subject to stated conditions, when he finds that: (1) Good cause is shown for the use of the alternate method or procedure; (2) The alternate method or procedure is within the purpose of, and consistent with the effect intended by, the specifically prescribed method or procedure and that the alternate method or procedure is substantially equivalent to that specifically prescribed method or procedure; and (3) The alternate method or procedure will not be contrary to any provision of law and will not result in an increase in cost to the Government or hinder the effective administration of this part. Where the permittee or licensee desires to employ an alternate method or procedure, he shall submit a written application to the regional director (compliance), for transmittal to the Director. The application shall specifically describe the proposed alternate method or procedure and shall set forth the reasons for it. Alternate methods or procedures may not be employed until the application is approved by the Director. The permittee or licensee shall, during the period of authorization of an alternate method or procedure, comply with the terms of the approved application. Authorization of any alternate method or procedure may be withdrawn whenever, in the judgment of the Director, the effective administration of this part is hindered by the continuation of the authorization. As used in this paragraph, alternate methods or procedures include alternate construction or equipment. (b) Emergency variations from requirements. The Director may approve construction, equipment, and methods of operation other than as specified in this part, where he finds that an emergency exists and the proposed variations from the specified requirements are necessary and the proposed variations: (1) Will afford security and protection that are substantially equivalent to those prescribed in this part; (2) Will not hinder the effective administration of this part; and (3) Will not be contrary to any provisions of law. Variations from requirements granted under this paragraph are conditioned on compliance with the procedures, conditions, and limitations set forth in the approval of the application. Failure to comply in good faith with the procedures, conditions, and limitations shall automatically terminate the authority for the variations and the licensee or permittee shall fully comply with the prescribed requirements of regulations from which the variations were authorized. Authority for any variation may be withdrawn whenever, in the judgment of the Director, the effective administration of this part is hindered by the continuation of the variation. Where the licensee or permittee desires to employ an emergency variation, he shall submit a written application to the regional director (compliance) for transmittal to the Director. The application shall describe the proposed variation and set forth the reasons for it. Variations may not be employed until the application is approved, except when the emergency requires immediate action to correct a situation that is threatening to life or property. Corrective action may then be taken concurrent with the filing of the application and notification of the Director via telephone. (c) Retention of approved variations. The licensee or permittee shall retain, as part of his records available for examination by ATF officers, any application approved by the Director under this section. Sec. 55.23 List of explosive materials. The Director shall compile a list of explosive materials, which shall be published and revised at least annually in the Federal Register. The ``List of Explosive Materials'' (AFT Publication 5400.8) is available at no cost upon request from the ATF Distribution Center, 7943 Angus Court, Springfield, Virginia 22153. [T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] [[Page 738]] Sec. 55.24 Right of entry and examination. Any ATF officer may enter during business hours the premises, including places of storage, of any licensee or permittee for the purpose of inspecting or examining any records or documents required to be kept under this part, and any explosive materials kept or stored at the premises. Sec. 55.25 Disclosure of information. Upon receipt of written request from any State or any political subdivision of a State, the regional director (compliance) may make available to the State or politicial subdivision any information which the regional director (compliance) may obtain under the Act with respect to the identification of persons within the State or political subdivision, who have purchased or received explosive materials, together with a description of the explosive materials. Sec. 55.26 Prohibited shipment, transportation, receipt, possession, or distribution of explosive materials. (a) No person, other than a licensee or permittee, shall transport, ship, cause to be transported, or receive in interstate or foreign commerce any explosive materials. This paragraph does not apply to: (1) The transportation, shipment, or receipt of explosive materials by a nonlicensed person or nonpermittee who lawfully purchases explosive materials from a licensee in a State contiguous to the purchaser's State of residence if, (i) the purchaser's State of residence has enacted legislation, currently in force, specifically authorizing a resident of that State to purchase explosive materials in a contiguous State, (ii) the provisions of Sec. 55.105(c) are fully complied with, and (iii) the purchaser is not otherwise prohibited under paragraph (b) of this section from shipping or transporting explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce or receiving explosive materials which have been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce; or (2) The lawful purchase by a nonlicensee or nonpermittee of commercially manufactured black powder in quantities not to exceed 50 pounds, if the black powder is intended to be used solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes in antique firearms as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921(a)(16), or in antique devices as exempted from the term ``destructive device'' in 18 U.S.C. 921(a)(4). (b) No person may ship or transport any explosive material in interstate or foreign commerce or receive or possess any explosive materials which have been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce who: (1) Is under indictment or information for, or who has been convicted in any court of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, (2) Is a fugitive from justice, (3) Is an unlawful user of or addicted to marijuana, or any depressant or stimulant drug, or narcotic drug (as these terms are defined in the Controlled Substances Act; 21 U.S.C. 802), or (4) Has been adjudicated as a mental defective or has been committed to a mental institution. (c) No person shall knowingly distribute explosive materials to any individual who: (1) Is under twenty-one years of age, (2) Is under indictment or information for, or who has been convicted in any court of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, (3) Is a fugitive from justice, (4) Is an unlawful user of or addicted to marijuana, or any depressant or stimulant drug, or narcotic drug (as these terms are defined in the Controlled Substances Act; 21 U.S.C. 802), or (5) Has been adjudicated as a mental defective or has been committed to a mental institution. (d) See Sec. 55.180 for regulations concerning the prohibited manufacture, importation, exportation, shipment, transportation, receipt, transfer, or possession of plastic explosives that do not contain a detection agent. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3721, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. ATF-363, 60 FR 17449, Apr. 6, 1995; T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997] [[Page 739]] Sec. 55.27 Out-of-State disposition of explosive materials. No nonlicensee or nonpermittee shall distribute any explosive materials to any other nonlicensee or nonpermittee who the distributor knows or has reasonable cause to believe does not reside in the State in which the distributor resides. Sec. 55.28 Stolen explosive materials. No person shall receive, conceal, transport, ship, store, barter, sell, or dispose of any stolen explosive materials knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that the explosive materials were stolen. Sec. 55.29 Unlawful storage. No person shall store any explosive materials in a manner not in conformity with this part. Sec. 55.30 Reporting theft or loss of explosive materials. (a) Any licensee or permittee who has knowledge of the theft or loss of any explosive materials from his stock shall, within 24 hours of discovery, report the theft or loss by telephoning 1-800-800-3855 (nationwide toll free number) and on ATF F 5400.5 (formerly Form 4712) in accordance with the instructions on the form. Theft or loss of any explosive materials shall also be reported to appropriate local authorities. (b) Any other person, except a carrier of explosive materials, who has knowledge of the theft or loss of any explosive materials from his stock shall, within 24 hours of discovery, report the theft or loss by telephoning 1-800-800-3855 (nationwide toll free number) and in writing to the nearest ATF office. Theft or loss shall be reported to appropriate local authorities. (c) Reports of theft or loss of explosive materials under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section must include the following information, if known: (1) The manufacturer or brand name. (2) The manufacturer's marks of identification (date and shift code). (3) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of explosives, number of detonators, etc.). (4) Description (dynamite, blasting agents, detonators, etc.) and United Nations (UN) identification number, hazard division number, and classification letter, e.g., 1.1D, as classified by the U.S. Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 172.101 and 173.52. (5) Size (length and diameter). (d) A carrier of explosive materials who has knowledge of the theft or loss of any explosive materials shall, within 24 hours of discovery, report the theft or loss by telephoning 1-800-800-3855 (nationwide toll free number). Theft or loss shall also be reported to appropriate local authorities. Reports of theft or loss of explosive materials by carriers shall include the following information, if known: (1) The manufacturer or brand name. (2) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of explosives, number of detonators, etc.). (3) Description (United Nations (UN) identification number, hazard division number, and classification letter, e.g., 1.1D) as classified by the U.S. Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 172.101 and 173.52. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.31 Inspection of site accidents or fires; right of entry. Any ATF officer may inspect the site of any accident or fire in which there is reason to believe that explosive materials were involved. Any ATF officer may enter into or upon any property where explosive materials have been used, are suspected of having been used, or have been found in an otherwise unauthorized location. Sec. 55.32 Special explosive devices. The Director may exempt certain explosive actuated devices, explosive actuated tools, or similar devices from the requirements of this part. A person who desires to obtain an exemption under this section for any special explosive device, which as designed does not constitute a public safety or security hazard, shall submit a written request to the Director. Each request shall be executed under the penalties of perjury and contain a complete and accurate description of the device, the name and address of the manufacturer or importer, the purpose of and use for [[Page 740]] which it is intended, and any photographs, diagrams, or drawings as may be necessary to enable the Director to make a determination. The Director may require that a sample of the device be submitted for examination and evaluation. If it is not possible to submit the device, the person requesting the exemption shall advise the Director and designate the place where the device will be available for examination and evaluation. Subpart D--Licenses and Permits Sec. 55.41 General. (a) Each person intending to engage in business as an importer or manufacturer of, or a dealer in, explosive materials, including black powder, shall, before commencing business, obtain the license required by this subpart for the business to be operated. Each person who intends to acquire for use explosive materials from a licensee in a State other than the State in which he resides, or from a foreign country, or who intends to transport explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce, shall obtain a permit under this subpart; except that it is not necessary to obtain a permit if the user intends to lawfully purchase: (1) Explosive materials from a licensee in a State contiguous to the user's State of residence and the user's State of residence has enacted legislation, currently in force, specifically authorizing a resident of that State to purchase explosive materials in a contiguous State, or (2) Commercially manufactured black powder in quantities not to exceed 50 pounds, intended to be used solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes in antique firearms or in antique devices. (b) Each person intending to engage in business as an explosive materials importer, manufacturer, or dealer shall file an application, with the required fee (see Sec. 55.42), with ATF in accordance with the instructions on the form (see Sec. 55.45). A license shall, subject to law, entitle the licensee to transport, ship, and receive explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce, and to engage in the business specified by the license, at the location described on the license. A separate license must be obtained for each business premises at which the applicant is to manufacture, import, or distribute explosive materials except under the following circumstances: (1) A separate license shall not be required for storage facilities operated by the licensee as an integral part of one business premises or to cover a location used by the licensee solely for maintaining the records required by this part. (2) A separate license shall not be required of a licensed manufacturer with respect to his on-site manufacturing. (3) It shall not be necessary for a licensed importer or a licensed manufacturer (for purposes of sale or distribution) to also obtain a dealer's license in order to engage in business on his licensed premises as a dealer in explosive materials. (4) A separate license shall not be required of licensed manufacturers with respect to their on-site manufacture of theatrical flash powder. (c) Except as provided in paragraph (a) of this section, each person intending to acquire explosive materials from a licensee in a State other than a State in which he resides, or from a foreign country, or who intends to transport explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce, shall file an application, with the required fee (see Sec. 55.43), with ATF in accordance with the instructions on the form (see Sec. 55.45). A permit shall, subject to law, entitle the permittee to acquire, transport, ship, and receive in interstate or foreign commerce explosive materials of the class authorized by this permit. Only one permit is required under this part. (18 U.S.C. 847 (84 Stat. 959); 18 U.S.C. 926 (82 Stat. 1226)) [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-200, 50 FR 10497, Mar. 15, 1985; T.D. ATF-314, 56 FR 49140, Sept. 27, 1991; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.42 License fees. (a) Each applicant shall pay a fee for obtaining a three year license, a separate fee being required for each business premises, as follows: (1) Manufacturer--$200. (2) Importer--$200. (3) Dealer--$200. [[Page 741]] (b) Each applicant for a renewal of a license shall pay a fee for a three year license as follows: (1) Manufacturer--$100. (2) Importer--$100. (3) Dealer--$100. [T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.43 Permit fees. (a) Each applicant shall pay a fee for obtaining a permit as follows: (1) User--$100 for a three year permit. (2) User-limited (nonrenewable)--$75. (b) Each applicant for renewal of a user permit shall pay a fee of $50 for a three year permit. [T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.44 License or permit fee not refundable. No refund of any part of the amount paid as a license or permit fee will be made where the operations of the licensee or permittee are, for any reason, discontinued during the period of an issued license or permit. However, the license or permit fee submitted with an application for a license or permit will be refunded if that application is denied, withdrawn, or abandoned, or if a license is cancelled subsequent to having been issued through administrative error. Sec. 55.45 Original license or permit. (a) Any person who intends to engage in business as an explosive materials importer, manufacturer, or dealer, or who has not timely submitted application for renewal of a previous license issued under this part, shall file with ATF an application for License, Explosives, ATF F 5400.13 with ATF in accordance with the instructions on the form. The application must be executed under the penalties of perjury and the penalties imposed by 18 U.S.C. 844(a). The application is to be accompanied by the appropriate fee in the form of a money order or check made payable to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. ATF F 5400.13 may be obtained from any ATF office. (b) Any person, except as provided in Sec. 55.41(a), who intends to acquire explosive materials from a licensee in a state other than the State in which that person resides, or from a foreign country, or who intends to transport explosive materials in interstate or foreign commerce, or who has not timely submitted application for renewal of a previous permit issued under this part, shall file an application for Permit, Explosives, ATF F 5400.16 or Permit, User Limited Special Fireworks, ATF F 5400.21 with ATF in accordance with the instructions on the form. The application must be executed under the penalties of perjury and the penalties imposed by 18 U.S.C. 844(a). The application is to be accompanied by the appropriate fee in the form of a money order or check made payable to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. ATF F 5400.16 and ATF F 5400.21 may be obtained from any ATF office. (18 U.S.C. 847 (84 Stat. 959); 18 U.S.C. 926 (82 Stat. 1226)) [T.D. T.D. ATF-200, 50 FR 10497, Mar. 15, 1985, as amended by T.D. ATF- 400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.46 Renewal of license or permit. (a) If a licensee or permittee intends to continue the business or operation described on a license or permit issued under this part after the expiration date of the license or permit, he shall, unless otherwise notified in writing by the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, execute and file prior to the expiration of his license or permit an application for license renewal, ATF F 5400.14 (Part III), or an application for permit renewal, ATF F 5400.15 (Part III), accompanied by the required fee, with ATF in accordance with the instructions on the form. In the event the licensee or permittee does not timely file a renewal application, he shall file an original application as required by Sec. 55.45, and obtain the required license or permit in order to continue business or operations. (b) A user-limited permit is not renewable and is valid for a single purchase transaction. Applications for all user-limited permits must be filed on [[Page 742]] ATF F 5400.16 or ATF F 5400.21, as required by Sec. 55.45. (18 U.S.C. 847 (84 Stat. 959); 18 U.S.C. 926 (82 Stat. 1226)) [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-200, 50 FR 10497, Mar. 15, 1985; T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.47 Insufficient fee. If an application is filed with an insufficient fee, the application and fee submitted will be returned to the applicant. (18 U.S.C. 847 (84 Stat. 959); 18 U.S.C. 926 (82 Stat. 1226)) [T.D. ATF-200, 50 FR 10498, Mar. 15, 1985] Sec. 55.48 Abandoned application. Upon receipt of an incomplete or improperly executed application, the applicant will be notified of the deficiency in the application. If the application is not corrected and returned within 30 days following the date of notification, the application will be considered as having been abandoned and the license or permit fee returned. Sec. 55.49 Issuance of license or permit. (a) The Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall issue a license or permit if (1) a properly executed application for the license or permit is received, and (2) through further inquiry or investigation, or otherwise, it is found that the applicant is entitled to the license or permit. The license or permit and one copy will be forwarded to the applicant, except that in the case of a user-limited permit, the original only shall be issued. Each license or permit will bear a serial number and this number may be assigned to the licensee or permittee to whom issued for as long as he maintains continuity of renewal in the same region. (b) The Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall approve a properly executed application for a license or permit, if: (1) The applicant is 21 years of age or over; (2) The applicant (including, in the case of a corporation, partnership, or association, any individual possessing, directly or indirectly, the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of the corporation, partnership, or association) is not a person to whom distribution of explosive materials is prohibited under the Act; (3) The applicant has not willfully violated any provisions of the Act or this part; (4) The applicant has not knowingly withheld information or has not made any false or fictitious statement intended or likely to deceive, in connection with his application; (5) The applicant has in a State, premises from which he conducts business or operations subject to license or permit under the Act or from which he intends to conduct business or operations; (6) The applicant has storage for the class (as described in Sec. 55.202) of explosive materials described on the application, unless he establishes to the satisfaction of the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center that the business or operations to be conducted will not require the storage of explosive materials. (7) The applicant has certified in writing that he is familiar with and understands all published State laws and local ordinances relating to explosive materials for the location in which he intends to do business; and (8) The applicant for a license has submitted the certificate required by section 21 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended (33 U.S.C. 1341). (c) The Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall approve or the regional director (compliance) shall deny any application for a license or permit within the 45-day period beginning on the date a properly executed application was received. However, when an applicant for license or permit renewal is a person who is, under the provisions of Sec. 55.83 or Sec. 55.142, conducting business or operations under a previously issued license or permit, action regarding the application will be held in abeyance pending the completion of the proceedings against the applicant's existing license or permit, or renewal application, or [[Page 743]] final action by the Director on an application for relief submitted under Sec. 55.142, as the case may be. (18 U.S.C. 847 (84 Stat. 959); 18 U.S.C. 926 (82 Stat. 1226)) [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-200, 50 FR 10498, Mar. 15, 1985; T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989; T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997] Sec. 55.50 Correction of error on license or permit. (a) Upon receipt of a license or permit issued under this part, each licensee or permittee shall examine the license or permit to insure that the information on it is accurate. If the license or permit is incorrect, the licensee or permittee shall return the license or permit to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, with a statement showing the nature of the error. The Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall correct the error, if the error was made in his office, and return the license or permit. However, if the error resulted from information contained in the licensee's or permittee's application for the license or permit, the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall require the licensee or permittee to file an amended application setting forth the correct information and a statement explaining the error contained in the application. Upon receipt of the amended application and a satisfactory explanation of the error, the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall make the correction on the license or permit and return it to the licensee or permittee. (b) When the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, finds through any means other than notice from the licensee or permittee that an incorrect license or permit has been issued, (1) the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, may require the holder of the incorrect license or permit to return the license or permit for correction, and (2) if the error resulted from information contained in the licensee's or permittee's application for the license or permit, the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, shall require the licensee or permittee to file an amended application setting forth the correct information, and a statement satisfactorily explaining the error contained in the application. The Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, then shall make the correction on the license or permit and return it to the licensee or permittee. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.51 Duration of license or permit. An original license or permit is issued for a period of three years. A renewal license or permit is issued for a period of three years. However, a user-limited permit is valid only for a single purchase transaction. [T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Sec. 55.52 Limitations on license or permit. (a) The license covers the business and class (as described in Sec. 55.202) of explosive materials specified in the license at the licensee's business premises (see Sec. 55.41(b)). (b) The permit is valid with respect to the type of operations and class (as described in Sec. 55.202) of explosive materials specified in the permit. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997] Sec. 55.53 License and permit not transferable. Licenses and permits issued under this part are not transferable to another person. In the event of the lease, sale, or other transfer of the business or operations covered by the license or permit, the successor must obtain the license or permit required by this part before commencing business or operations. However, for rules on right of succession, see Sec. 55.59. Sec. 55.54 Change of address. During the term of a license or permit, a licensee or permittee may move his business or operations to a new address at which he intends to regularly carry on his business or operations, without procuring a new license or permit. However, in every case, the licensee or permittee shall-- [[Page 744]] (a) Give notification of the new location of the business or operations to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center at least 10 days before the move; and (b) Submit the license or permit to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center. The Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center will issue an amended license or permit, which will contain the new address (and new license or permit number, if any). [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.55 Change in class of explosive materials. A licensee or permittee who intends to change the class of explosive materials described in his license or permit from a lower to a higher classification (see Sec. 55.202) shall file an application on ATF F 5400.13 or on ATF F 5400.16 with the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, for an amended license or permit. If the change in class of explosive materials would require a change in magazines, the amended application must include a description of the type of construction as prescribed in this part. Business or operations with respect to the new class of explosive materials may not be commenced before issuance of the amended license or amended permit. Upon receipt of the amended license or amended permit, the licensee or permittee shall submit his superseded license or superseded permit and any copies furnished with the license or permit to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989; T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997] Sec. 55.56 Change in trade name. A licensee or permittee continuing to conduct business or operations at the location shown on his license or permit is not required to obtain a new license or permit by reason of a mere change in trade name under which he conducts his business or operations. However, the licensee or permittee shall furnish his license or permit and any copies furnished with the license or permit for endorsement of the change to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, within 30 days from the date the licensee or permittee begins his business or operations under the new trade name. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.57 Change of control. In the case of a corporation or association holding a license or permit under this part, if actual or legal control of the corporation or association changes, directly or indirectly, whether by reason of change in stock ownership or control (in the corporation holding a license or permit or in any other corporation), by operation of law, or in any other manner, the licensee or permittee shall, within 30 days of the change, give written notification executed under the penalties of perjury, to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center. Upon expiration of the license or permit, the corporation or association shall file an ATF F 5400.13 or an ATF F 5400.16 as required by Sec. 55.45, and pay the fee prescribed in Sec. 55.42(b) or Sec. 55.43(b). [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.58 Continuing partnerships. Where, under the laws of the particular State, the partnership is not terminated on death or insolvency of a partner, but continues until the winding up of the partnership affairs is completed, and the surviving partner has the exclusive right to the control and possession of the partnership assets for the purpose of liquidation and settlement, the surviving partner may continue to conduct the business or operations under the license or permit of the partnership. If the surviving partner acquires the business or operations on completion of settlement of the partnership, he shall obtain a license or permit in his own name from the date of acquisition, as provided in Sec. 55.45. The rule set forth in this section will also apply where there is more than one surviving partner. [[Page 745]] Sec. 55.59 Right of succession by certain persons. (a) Certain persons other than the licensee or permittee may secure the right to carry on the same explosive materials business or operations at the same business premises for the remainder of the term of license or permit. These persons are: (1) The surviving spouse or child, or executor, administrator, or other legal representative of a deceased licensee or permittee; and (2) A receiver or trustee in bankruptcy, or an assignee for benefit of creditors. (b) In order to secure the right of succession, the person or persons continuing the business or operations shall submit the license or permit and all copies furnished with the license or permit for endorsement of the succession to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, within 30 days from the date on which the successor begins to carry on the business or operations. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.60 Certain continuances of business or operations. A licensee or permittee who furnishes his license or permit to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center, for correction, amendment, or endorsement, as provided in this subpart, may continue his business or operations while awaiting its return. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.61 Discontinuance of business or operations. Where an explosive materials business or operations is either discontinued or succeeded by a new owner, the owner of the business or operations discontinued or succeeded shall, within 30 days, furnish notification of the discontinuance or succession and submit his license or permit and any copies furnished with the license or permit to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center. (See also Sec. 55.128.) [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.62 State or other law. A license or permit issued under this part confers no right or privilege to conduct business or operations, including storage, contrary to State or other law. The holder of a license or permit issued under this part is not, by reason of the rights and privileges granted by that license or permit, immune from punishment for conducting an explosive materials business or operations in violation of the provisions of any State or other law. Similarly, compliance with the provisions of any State or other law affords no immunity under Federal law or regulations. Sec. 55.63 Explosives magazine changes. (a) General. (1) The requirements of this section are applicable to magazines used for other than temporary (under 24 hours) storage of explosives. (2) A magazine is considered suitable for the storage of explosives if the construction requirements of this part are met during the time explosives are stored in the magazine. (3) A magazine is considered suitable for the storage of explosives if positioned in accordance with the applicable table of distances as specified in this part during the time explosives are stored in the magazine. (4) For the purposes of this section, notification of the regional director (compliance) may be by telephone or in writing. However, if notification of the regional director (compliance) is in writing it must be at least three business days in advance of making changes in construction to an existing magazine or constructing a new magazine, and at least five business days in advance of using any reconstructed magazine or added magazine for the storage of explosives. (b) Exception. Mobile or portable type 5 magazines are exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, but must otherwise be in compliance with paragraphs (a) (2) and (3) of this section during the time explosives are stored in such magazines. [[Page 746]] (c) Changes in magazine construction. A licensee or permittee who intends to make changes in construction of an existing magazine shall notify the regional director (compliance) describing the proposed changes prior to making any changes. Unless otherwise advised by the regional director (compliance), changes in construction may commence after explosives are removed from the magazine. Explosives may not be stored in a reconstructed magazine before the regional director (compliance) has been notified in accordance with paragraph (a)(4) of this section that the changes have been completed. (d) Magazines acquired or constructed after permit or license is issued. A licensee or permittee who intends to construct or acquire additional magazines shall notify the regional director (compliance) in accordance with paragraph (a)(4) of this section describing the additional magazines and the class and quantity of explosives to be stored in the magazine. Unless otherwise advised by the regional director (compliance), additional magazines may be constructed, or acquired magazines may be used for the storage of explosives. Explosives must not be stored in a magazine under construction. The regional director (compliance) must be notified that construction has been completed. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998] Subpart E--License and Permit Proceedings Sec. 55.71 Opportunity for compliance. Except in cases of willfulness or those in which the public interest requires otherwise, and the regional director (compliance) so alleges in the notice of denial of an application or revocation of a license or permit, no license or permit will be revoked or renewal application denied without first calling to the attention of the licensee or permittee the reasons for the contemplated action and affording him an opportunity to demonstrate or achieve compliance with all lawful requirements and to submit facts, arguments, or proposals of adjustment. The notice of contemplated action, AFT F 5400.12, will afford the licensee or permittee 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice to respond. If no response is received within the 15 days, or if after consideration of relevant matters presented by the licensee or permittee, the regional director (compliance) finds that the licensee or permittee is not likely to abide by the law and regulations, he will proceed as provided in Sec. 55.74. Sec. 55.72 Denial of initial application. Whenever the regional director (compliance) has reason to believe that an applicant for an original license or permit is not eligible to receive a license or permit under the provisions of Sec. 55.49, he shall issue a notice of denial on ATF F 5400.11. The notice will set forth the matters of fact and law relied upon in determining that the application should be denied, and will afford the applicant 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice in which to request a hearing to review the denial. If no request for a hearing is filed within that time, a copy of the application, marked ``Disapproved'', will be returned to the applicant. Sec. 55.73 Hearing after initial application is denied. If the applicant for an original license or permit desires a hearing, he shall file a request with the regional director (compliance) within 15 days after receipt of the notice of denial. The request should include a statement of the reasons for a hearing. On receipt of the request, the regional director (compliance) shall refer the matter to an administrative law judge who shall set a time and place (see Sec. 55.77) for a hearing and shall serve notice of the hearing upon the applicant and the regional director (compliance) at least 10 days in advance of the hearing date. The hearing will be conducted in accordance with the hearing procedures prescribed in Part 200 of this chapter (see Sec. 55.82). Within a reasonable time after the conclusion of the hearing, and as expeditiously as possible, the administrative law judge shall render his recommended decision. He shall certify to the complete record of the proceedings [[Page 747]] before him and shall immediately forward the complete certified record, together with four copies of his recommended decision, to the regional director (compliance) for decision. Sec. 55.74 Denial of renewal application or revocation of license or permit. If following the opportunity for compliance under Sec. 55.71, or without opportunity for compliance under Sec. 55.71, as circumstances warrant, the regional director (compliance) finds that the licensee or permittee is not likely to comply with the law or regulations or is otherwise not eligible to continue operations authorized under his license or permit, the regional director (compliance) shall issue a notice of denial of the renewal application or revocation of the license or permit, ATF F 5400.11 or ATF F 5400.10, as appropriate. In either case, the notice will set forth the matters of fact constituting the violations specified, dates, places, and the sections of law and regulations violated. The notice will, in the case of revocation of a license or permit, specify the date on which the action is effective, which date will be on or after the date the notice is served on the licensee or permittee. The notice will also advise the licensee or permittee that he may, within 15 days after receipt of the notice, request a hearing and, if applicable, a stay of the effective date of the revocation of his license or permit. Sec. 55.75 Hearing after denial of renewal application or revocation of license or permit. If a licensee or permittee whose renewal application has been denied or whose license or permit has been revoked desires a hearing, he shall file a request for a hearing with the regional director (compliance). In the case of the revocation of a license or permit, he may include a request for a stay of the effective date of the revocation. On receipt of the request the regional director (compliance) shall advise the licensee or permittee whether the stay of the effective date of the revocation is granted. If the stay of the effective date of the revocation is granted, the regional director (compliance) shall refer the matter to an administrative law judge who shall set a time and place (see Sec. 55.77) for a hearing and shall serve notice of the hearing upon the licensee or permittee and the regional director (compliance) at least 10 days in advance of the hearing date. If the stay of the effective date of the revocation is denied, the licensee or permittee may request an immediate hearing. In this event, the regional director (compliance) shall immediately refer the matter to an administrative law judge who shall set a date and place for a hearing, which date shall be no later than 10 days from the date the licensee or permittee requested an immediate hearing. The hearing will be held in accordance with the applicable provisions of Part 200 of this chapter. Within a reasonable time after the conclusion of the hearing, and as expeditiously as possible, the administrative law judge shall render his decision. He shall certify to the complete record of the proceeding before him and shall immediately forward the complete certified record, together with two copies of his decision, to the regional director (compliance), serve one copy of his decision on the licensee or permittee or his counsel, and transmit a copy to the attorney for the Government. Sec. 55.76 Action by regional director (compliance). (a) Initial application proceedings. If, upon receipt of the record and the recommended decision of the administrative law judge, the regional director (compliance) decides that the license or permit should be issued, the regional director (compliance) shall cause the application to be approved, briefly stating, for the record, his reasons. If he contemplates that the denial should stand, he shall serve a copy of the administrative law judge's recommended decision on the applicant, informing the applicant of his contemplated action and affording the applicant not more than 10 days in which to submit proposed findings and conclusions or exceptions to the recommended decision with supporting reasons. If the regional director (compliance), after consideration of the record of the hearing and of any proposed findings, conclusions, or exceptions filed with him by the applicant, approves the findings, [[Page 748]] conclusions and recommended decision of the administrative law judge, the regional director (compliance) shall cause the license or permit to be issued or disapproved the application accordingly. If he disapproves the findings, conclusions, and recommendation of the administrative law judge, in whole or in part, he shall by order make such findings and conclusions as in his opinion are warranted by the law and the facts in the record. Any decision of the regional director (compliance) ordering the disapproval of an initial application for a license or permit shall state the findings and conclusions upon which it is based, including his ruling upon each proposed finding, conclusion, and exception to the administrative law judge's recommended decision, together with a statement of his findings and conclusions, and reasons or basis for his findings and conclusions, upon all material issues of fact, law or discretion presented on the record. A signed duplicate original of the decision will be served upon the applicant and the original copy containing certificate of service will be placed in the official record of the proceedings. If the decision of the regional director (compliance) is in favor of the applicant, he shall issue the license or permit, to be effective on issuance. (b) Renewal application and revocation proceedings. Upon receipt of the complete certified records of the hearing, the regional director (compliance) shall enter an order confirming the revocation of the license or permit, or disapproving the application, in accordance with the administrative law judge's findings and decision, unless he disagrees with the findings and decision. A signed duplicate original of the order, ATF F 5400.9, will be served upon the licensee or permittee and the original copy containing certificate of service will be placed in the official record of the proceedings. If the regional director (compliance) disagrees with the findings and decision of the administrative law judge, he shall file a petition with the Director for review of the findings and decision, as provided in Sec. 55.79. In either case, if the renewal application denial is sustained, a copy of the application marked ``Disapproved'' will be returned to the applicant. If the renewal application denial is reversed, a license or permit will be issued to become effective on expiration of the license or permit being renewed, or on the date of issuance, whichever is later. If the proceedings involve the revocation of a license or permit which expired before a decision is in favor of the licensee or permittee, the regional director (compliance) shall: (1) If renewal application was timely filed and a stay of the effective date of the revocation was granted, cause to be issued a license or permit effective on the date of issuance; (2) If renewal application was not timely filed but a stay of the effective date of the revocation had been granted, request that a renewal application be filed and, following that, cause to be issued a license or permit to be effective on issuance; or (3) If a stay of the effective date of the revocation had not been granted, request that an application be filed as provided in Sec. 55.45, and process it in the same manner as for an application for an original license or permit. (c) Curtailment of stay of revocation effective date. If, after approval of a request for a stay of the effective date of an order revoking a license or permit but before actions are completed under this subpart, the regional director (compliance) finds that it is contrary to the public interest for the licensee or permittee to continue the operations or activities covered by his license or permit, the regional director (compliance) may issue a notice of withdrawal of the approval, effective on the date of issuance. Notice of withdrawal will be served upon the licensee or permittee in the manner provided in Sec. 55.81. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989] Sec. 55.77 Designated place of hearing. The designated place of hearing set as provided in Sec. 55.73 or Sec. 55.75, will be at the location convenient to the aggrieved party. Sec. 55.78 Representation at a hearing. An applicant, licensee, or permittee may be represented by an attorney, certified public accountant, or other [[Page 749]] person recognized to practice before the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms as provided in 31 CFR Part 8, if he has otherwise complied with the applicable requirements of of 26 CFR 601.521 through 601.527. The regional director (compliance) shall be represented in proceedings under Secs. 55.73 and 55.75 by an attorney in the office of the chief counsel or regional counsel who is authorized to execute and file motions, briefs, and other papers in the proceedings, on behalf of the regional director (compliance), in his own name as ``Attorney for the Government''. [T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-92, 46 FR 46916, Sept. 23, 1981] Sec. 55.79 Appeal on petition to the Director. An appeal to the Director is not required prior to filing an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for judicial review. An appeal may be taken by the applicant, licensee, or permittee to the Director from a decision resulting from a hearing under Sec. 55.73 or Sec. 55.75. An appeal may also be taken by a regional director (compliance) from a decision resulting from a hearing under Sec. 55.75 as provided in Sec. 55.76(b). The appeal shall be taken by filing a petition for review on appeal with the Director within 15 days of the service of an administrative law judge's decision or an order. The petition will set forth facts tending to show (a) action of an arbitrary nature, (b) action without reasonable warrant in fact, or (c) action contrary to law and regulations. A copy of the petition will be filed with the regional director (compliance) or served on the applicant, licensee, or permittee, as the case may be. In the event of appeal, the regional director (compliance) shall immediately forward the complete original record, by certified mail, to the Director for his consideration, review, and disposition as provided in subpart I of part 200 of this chapter. When, on appeal, the Director affirms the initial decision of the regional director (compliance) or the administrative law judge, as the case may be, the initial decision will be final. Sec. 55.80 Court review. An applicant, licensee, or permittee may, within 60 days after receipt of the decision of the administrative law judge or the final order of the regional director (compliance) or the Director, file a petition for a judicial review of the decision, with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the district in which he resides or has his principal place of business. The Director, upon notification that a petition has been filed, shall have prepared a complete transcript of the record of the proceedings. The regional director (compliance) or the Director, as the case may be, shall certify to the correctness of the transcript of the record, forward one copy to the attorney for the Government in the review of the case, and file the original record of the proceedings with the original certificate in the U.S. Court of Appeals. Sec. 55.81 Service on applicant, licensee, or permittee.