[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.

    All notices and other formal documents required to be served on an 
applicant, licensee, or permittee under this subpart will be served by 
certified mail or by personal delivery. Where service is by personal 
delivery, the signed duplicate original copy of the formal document will 
be delivered to the applicant, licensee, or permittee, or, in the case 
of a corporation, partnership, or association, by delivering it to an 
officer, manager, or general agent, or to its attorney of record.

Sec. 55.82  Provisions of Part 200 made applicable.

    The provisions of subpart G of part 200 of this chapter, as well as 
those provisions of part 200 relative to failure to appear, withdrawal 
of an application or surrender of a permit, the conduct of hearings 
before an administrative law judge, and record of testimony, are hereby 
made applicable to application, license, and permit proceedings under 
this subpart to the extent that they are not contrary to or incompatible 
with this subpart.

[[Page 750]]

Sec. 55.83  Operations by licensees or permittees after notice of denial 
          or revocation.

    In any case where a notice of revocation has been issued and a 
request for a stay of the effective date of the revocation has not been 
granted, the licensee or permittee shall not engage in the activities 
covered by the license or permit pending the outcome of proceedings 
under this subpart. In any case where notice of revocation has been 
issued but a stay of the effective date of the revocation has been 
granted, the licensee or permittee may continue to engage in the 
activities covered by his license or permit unless, or until, formally 
notified to the contrary: Provided, That in the event the license or 
permit would have expired before proceedings under this subpart are 
completed, timely renewal application must have been filed to continue 
the license or permit beyond its expiration date. In any case where a 
notice of denial of a renewal application has been issued, the licensee 
or permittee may continue to engage in the activities covered by the 
existing license or permit after the date of expiration of the license 
or permit until proceedings under this subpart are completed.

              Subpart F--Conduct of Business or Operations

Sec. 55.101  Posting of license or permit.

    A license or permit issued under this part, or a copy of a license 
or permit, will be posted and available for inspection on the business 
premises at each place where explosive materials are manufactured, 
imported, or distributed.

Sec. 55.102  Authorized operations by permittees.

    (a) In general. A permit issued under this part does not authorize 
the permittee to engage in the business of manufacturing, importing, or 
dealing in explosive materials. Accordingly, if a permittee's operations 
bring him within the definition of manufacturer, importer, or dealer 
under this part, he shall qualify for the appropriate license.
    (b) Distributions of surplus stocks. Permittees are not authorized 
to engage in the business of sale or distribution of explosive 
materials. However, permittees may dispose of surplus stocks of 
explosive materials to other licensees or permittees in accordance with 
Sec. 55.103, and to nonlicensees or to nonpermittees in accordance with 
Sec. 55.105(d).

[T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45002, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.103  Transactions among licensees/permittees.

    (a) General. (1) A licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or 
licensed dealer selling or otherwise distributing explosive materials 
(or a permittee disposing of surplus stock to a licensee or another 
permittee) who has the certified information required by this section 
may sell or distribute explosive materials to a licensee or permittee 
for not more than 45 days following the expiration date of the 
distributee's license or permit, unless the distributor knows or has 
reason to believe that the distributee's authority to continue business 
or operations under this part has been terminated.
    (2) A licensed importer, licensed manufacturer or licensed dealer 
selling or otherwise distributing explosive materials (or a permittee 
disposing of surplus stock to another licensee or permittee) shall 
verify the license or permit status of the distributee prior to the 
release of explosive materials ordered, as required by this section.
    (3) Licensees or permittees desiring to return explosive materials 
to a licensed manufacturer may do so without obtaining a certified copy 
of the manufacturer's license.
    (4) Where possession of explosive materials is transferred at the 
distributor's premises, the distributor shall in all instances verify 
the identity of the person accepting possession on behalf of the 
distributee before relinquishing possession. Before the delivery at the 
distributor's premises of explosive materials to an employee of a 
licensee or permittee, or to an employee of a carrier transporting 
explosive materials to a licensee or permittee, the distributor 
delivering explosive materials shall obtain an executed ATF F 5400.8 
from the employee before releasing the explosive materials. The ATF F 
5400.8

[[Page 751]]

must contain all of the information required on the form and required by 
this part.

    Example 1. An ATF F 5400.8 is required when:
    a. An employee of the purchaser takes possession at the 
distributor's premises.
    b. An employee of a carrier hired by the purchaser takes possession 
at the distributor's premises.
    Example 2. An ATF F 5400.8 is not required when:
    a. An employee of the distributor takes possession of the explosives 
for the purpose of transport to the purchaser.
    b. An employee of a carrier hired by the distributor takes 
possession of the explosives for the purpose of transport to the 
purchaser.

    (b) License/permit verification of individuals. (1) The distributee 
shall furnish a certified copy (or, in the case of a user-limited, the 
original) of the license or permit. The certified copy need be furnished 
only once during the current term of the license or permit. Also, a 
licensee need not furnish certified copies of licenses to other licensed 
locations operated by such licensee.
    (2) The distributor may obtain any additional verification as the 
distributor deems necessary.
    (c) License/permit verification of business organizations. (1) A 
business organization may (in lieu of furnishing a certified copy of a 
license) furnish the distributor a certified list which contains the 
name, address, license number and date of license expiration of each 
licensed location. The certified list need be furnished only once during 
the current term of the license or permit. Also, a business organization 
need not furnish a certified list to other licensed locations operated 
by such business organization.
    (2) A business organization shall, prior to ordering explosive 
materials, furnish the licensee or permittee a current certified list of 
the representatives or agents authorized to order explosive materials on 
behalf of the business organization showing the name, address, and date 
and place of birth of each representative or agent. A licensee or 
permittee shall not distribute explosive materials to a business 
organization on the order of a person who does not appear on the 
certified list of representatives or agents and, if the person does 
appear on the certified list, the licensee or permittee shall verify the 
identity of such person.
    (d) Licensee/permittee certified statement. (1) A licensee or 
permittee ordering explosive materials from another licensee or 
permittee shall furnish a current, certified statement of the intended 
use of the explosive materials; e.g., resale, mining, quarrying, 
agriculture, construction, road building, oil well drilling, 
seismographic research, to the distributor.
    (2) For individuals, the certified statement of intended use must 
specify the name, address, date and place of birth, and social security 
number of the distributee.
    (3) For business organizations, the certified statement of intended 
use must specify the taxpayer identification number, the identity and 
the principal and local places of business.
    (4) The licensee or permittee purchasing explosive materials need 
revise the furnished copy of the certified statement only when the 
information is no longer current.
    (e) User-limited permit transactions. A user-limited permit issued 
under the provisions of this part is valid for only a single purchase 
transaction and is not renewable (see Sec. 55.51). Accordingly, at the 
time a user-limited permittee orders explosive materials, the licensed 
distributor shall write on the front of the user-limited permit the 
transaction date, his signature, and the distributor's license number 
prior to returning the permit to the user-limited permittee.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.104  Certified copy of license or permit.

    Except as provided in Sec. 55.49(a), each person issued a license or 
permit under this part shall be furnished together with his license or 
permit a copy for his certification. If a person desires an additional 
copy of his license or permit for certification and for use under 
Sec. 55.103, he shall:
    (a) Make a reproduction of the copy of his license or permit and 
execute the certification on it;

[[Page 752]]

    (b) Make a reproduction of his license or permit, enter on the 
reproduction the statement: ``I certify that this is a true copy of a 
(insert the word license or permit) issued to me to engage in the 
specified business or operations'', and sign his name next to the 
statement; or
    (c) Submit a request, in writing, for certified copies of his 
license or permit to the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing 
Center. The request will show the name, trade name (if any), and address 
of the licensee or permittee and the number of copies of the license or 
permit desired. There is a fee of $1 for each copy of a license or 
permit issued by the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center 
under this paragraph. Fee payment must accompany each request for 
additional copies of a license or permit. The fee must be paid by (1) 
cash, or (2) money order or check made payable to the Bureau of Alcohol, 
Tobacco and Firearms.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-290, 54 
FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989]

Sec. 55.105  Distributions to nonlicensees and nonpermittees.

    (a) This section will apply in any case where distribution of 
explosive materials to the distributee is not otherwise prohibited by 
the Act or this part.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, a licensed 
importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer may distribute 
explosive materials to a nonlicensee or nonpermittee if the nonlicensee 
or nonpermittee is a resident of the same State in which the licensee's 
business premises are located, and the nonlicensee or nonpermittee 
furnishes to the licensee the explosives transaction record, AFT F 
5400.4, required by Sec. 55.126. Disposition of AFT F 5400.4 will be 
made in accordance with Sec. 55.126.
    (c) A licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer 
may sell or distribute explosive materials to a resident of a State 
contiguous to the State in which the licensee's place of business is 
located if the purchaser's State or residence has enacted legislation, 
currently in force, specifically authorizing a resident of that State to 
purchase explosive materials in a contiguous State and the purchaser and 
the licensee have, prior to the distribution of the explosive materials, 
complied with all the requirements of paragraphs (b), (e), and (f) of 
this section applicable to intrastate transactions occuring on the 
licensee's business premises.
    (d) A permittee may dispose of surplus stocks of explosive materials 
to a nonlicensee or nonpermittee if the nonlicensee or nonpermittee is a 
resident of the same State in which the permittee's business premises or 
operations are located, or is a resident of a State contiguous to the 
State in which the permittee's place of business or operations are 
located, and if the requirements of paragraphs (b), (c), (e) and (f) of 
this section are fully met.
    (e) A licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer 
selling or otherwise distributing explosive materials to a business 
entity shall verify the identity of the representative or agent of the 
business entity who is authorized to order explosive materials on behalf 
of the business entity. Each business entity ordering explosive 
materials shall furnish the distributing licensee prior to or with the 
first order of explosive materials a current certified list of the names 
of representatives or agents authorized to order explosive materials on 
behalf of the business entity. The business entity ordering explosive 
materials is responsible for keeping the certified list current. A 
licensee shall not distribute explosive materials to a business entity 
on the order of a person whose name does not appear on the certified 
list.
    (f) Where the possession of explosive materials is transferred at 
the distributor's premises, the distributor shall in all instances 
verify the identity of the person accepting possession on behalf of the 
distributee before relinquishing possession. Before the delivery at the 
distributor's premises of explosive materials to an employee of a 
nonlicensee or nonpermittee, or to an employee of a carrier transporting 
explosive materials to a nonlicensee or nonpermittee, the distributor 
delivering explosive materials shall obtain an executed ATF F 5400.8 
from the employee before releasing the explosive materials. The

[[Page 753]]

ATF F 5400.8 must contain all of the information required on the form 
and by this part. (See examples in Sec. 55.103(a).)
    (g) A licensee or permittee disposing of surplus stock may sell or 
distribute commercially manufactured black powder in quantities of 50 
pounds or less to a nonlicensee or nonpermittee 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).

[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-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.106  Certain prohibited distributions.

    (a) A licensee shall not distribute explosive materials to any 
person not licensed or holding a permit under this part, who the 
licensee knows or has reason to believe does not reside in the State in 
which the licensee's place of business is located. This paragraph does 
not apply to the distribution of explosive materials to a resident of a 
State contiguous to the State in which the licensee's place of business 
is located, if the requirements of Sec. 55.105(c) are fully met.
    (b) A licensee shall not distribute any explosive materials to any 
person:
    (1) Who the licensee knows is less than 21 years of age;
    (2) In any State where the purchase, possession, or use by a person 
of explosive materials would be in violation of any State law or any 
published ordinance applicable at the place of distribution;
    (3) Who the licensee has reason to believe intends to transport the 
explosive materials into a State where the purchase, possession, or use 
of explosive materials is prohibited or which does not permit its 
residents to transport or ship explosive materials into the State or to 
receive explosive materials in the State; or
    (4) Who the licensee has reasonable cause to believe intends to use 
the explosive materials for other than a lawful purpose.
    (c) A licensee shall not distribute any explosive materials to any 
person knowing or having reason to believe that the person:
    (1) Is, except as provided under Sec. 55.142 (d) and (e), under 
indictment or information for, or was convicted in any court of, a crime 
punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding 1 year;
    (2) Is a fugitive from justice;
    (3) Is an unlawful user of 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) Was adjudicated as a mental defective or was committed to a 
mental institution.
    (d) The provisions of this section do not apply to the purchase of 
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, if the 
requirements of Sec. 55.105(g) are fully met.

Sec. 55.107  Record of transactions.

    Each licensee and permittee shall keep records of explosive 
materials as required by subpart G of this part.

Sec. 55.108  Importation.

    (a) Explosive materials imported or brought into the United States 
by a licensed importer or permittee may be released from customs custody 
to the licensed importer or permittee upon proof of his status as a 
licensed importer or permittee. Proof of status must be made by the 
licensed importer or permittee furnishing to the customs officer a 
certified copy of his license or permit (see Sec. 55.103).
    (b) A nonlicensee or nonpermittee may import or bring into the 
United States commercially manufactured black powder in quantities not 
to exceed 50 pounds. Upon submitting to the customs officer completed 
ATF F 5400.3, certifying that the black powder is intended to be used 
solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes in antique 
firearms or in antique devices, black powder may be released from 
customs custody. The disposition of the executed ATF F 5400.3 will be in 
accordance with the instructions on the form.

[[Page 754]]

    (c) The provisions of this section are in addition to, and are not 
in lieu of, any applicable requirement under 27 CFR Part 47.
    (d) For additional requirements relating to the importation of 
plastic explosives into the United States on or after April 24, 1997, 
see Sec. 55.183.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-387, 62 
FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.109  Identification of explosive materials.

    (a) Each licensed manufacturer of explosive materials shall legibly 
identify by marking all explosive materials he manufactures for sale or 
distribution. The marks required by this section must identify the 
manufacturer and the location, date, and shift of manufacture. The 
licensed manufacturer shall place on each cartridge, bag, or other 
immediate container of explosive materials manufactured for sale or 
distribution the required mark which shall also be placed on the outside 
container, if any, used for their packaging.
    (b) Exceptions. (1) Licensed manufacturers of blasting caps are only 
required to place the identification marks prescribed in paragraph (a) 
on the containers used for the packaging of blasting caps.
    (2) The Director may authorize other means of identifying explosive 
materials upon receipt of a letter application from the licensed 
manufacturer showing that other identification is reasonable and will 
not hinder the effective administration of this part.
    (3) The Director may authorize the use of other means of 
identification on fireworks instead of marks prescribed in paragraph (a) 
of this section.

                     Subpart G--Records and Reports

Sec. 55.121  General.

    (a)(1) Licensees and permittees shall keep records pertaining to 
explosive materials in permanent form (i.e., commercial invoices, record 
books) and in the manner required in this subpart.
    (2) Licensees and permittees shall keep records required by this 
subpart on the business premises for five years from the date a 
transaction occurs or until discontinuance of business or operations by 
the licensee or permittee. (See also Sec. 55.128 for discontinuance of 
business or operations.)
    (b) ATF officers may enter the premises of any licensee or permittee 
for the purpose of examining or inspecting any record or document 
required by or obtained under this part (see Sec. 55.24). Section 843(f) 
of the Act requires licensees and permittees to make all required 
records available for examination or inspection at all reasonable times. 
Section 834(f) of the Act also requires licensees and permittees to 
submit all reports and information relating to all required records and 
their contents, as the regulations in this part prescribe.
    (c) Each licensee and permittee shall maintain all records of 
importation, production, shipment, receipt, sale, or other disposition, 
whether temporary or permanent, of explosive materials as the 
regulations in this part prescribe. Sections 842(f) and 842(g) of the 
Act make it unlawful for any licensee or permittee knowingly to make any 
false entry in, or fail to make entry in, any record required to be kept 
under the Act and the regulations in this part.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0373)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-172, 49 
FR 14941, Apr. 16, 1984]

Sec. 55.122  Records maintained by licensed importers.

    (a) Each licensed importer shall take true and accurate physical 
inventories which will include all explosive materials on hand required 
to be accounted for in the records kept under this part. The licensed 
importer shall take a special inventory
    (1) At the time of commencing business, which is the effective date 
of the license issued upon original qualification under this part;
    (2) At the time of changing the location of his business to another 
region;
    (3) At the time of discontinuing business; and
    (4) At any time the regional director (compliance) may in writing 
require. Each special inventory is to be prepared in duplicate, the 
original of which is submitted to the regional director (compliance), 
and the duplicate retained by the licensed importer. If a

[[Page 755]]

special inventory specified by paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of this 
section has not been taken during the calendar year, at least one 
physical inventory will be taken. However, the record of the yearly 
inventory, other than a special inventory required by paragraphs (a) (1) 
through (4) of this section, will remain on file for inspection instead 
of being sent to the regional director (compliance). (See also 
Sec. 55.127.)
    (b) Each licensed importer shall, not later than the close of the 
next business day following the date of importation or other acquisition 
of explosive materials, enter the following information in a separate 
record:
    (1) Date of importation or other acquisition.
    (2) Name or brand name of manufacturer and country of manufacture.
    (3) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (4) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (5) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks).
    (c) Each licensed importer shall, not later than the close of the 
next business day following the date of distribution of any explosive 
materials to another licensee or a permittee, enter in a separate record 
the following information:
    (1) Date of disposition.
    (2) Name or brand name of manufacturer and country of manufacture.
    (3) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (4) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (5) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks).
    (6) License or permit number of licensee or permittee to whom the 
explosive materials are distributed.
    (d) The regional director (compliance) may authorize alternate 
records to be maintained by a licensed importer to record his 
distribution of explosive materials when it is shown by the licensed 
importer that alternate records will accurately and readily disclose the 
information required by paragraph (c) of this section. A licensed 
importer who proposes to use alternate records shall submit a letter 
application to the regional director (compliance) and shall describe the 
proposed alternate records and the need for them. Alternate records are 
not to be employed by the licensed importer until approval is received 
from the regional director (compliance).
    (e) Each licensed importer shall maintain separate records of the 
sales or other distribution made of explosive materials to nonlicensees 
or nonpermittees. These records are maintained as prescribed by 
Sec. 55.126.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0373)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-172, 49 
FR 14941, Apr. 16, 1984; T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3721, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. 
ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.123  Records maintained by licensed manufacturers.

    (a) Each licensed manufacturer shall take true and accurate physical 
inventories which will include all explosive materials on hand required 
to be accounted for in the records kept under this part. The licensed 
manufacturer shall take a special inventory
    (1) At the time of commencing business, which is the effective date 
of the license issued upon original qualification under this part;
    (2) At the time of changing the location of his premises to another 
region;
    (3) At the time of discontinuing business; and
    (4) At any other time the regional director (compliance) may in 
writing require. Each special inventory is to be prepared in duplicate, 
the original of which is submitted to the regional director 
(compliance), and the duplicate retained by the licensed manufacturer. 
If a special inventory required by paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of 
this section has not been taken during the calendar year, at least one 
physical inventory will be taken. However, the record of the yearly 
inventory, other than a special inventory required by paragraphs

[[Page 756]]

(a) (1) through (4) of this section, will remain on file for inspection 
instead of being sent to the regional director (compliance). (See also 
Sec. 55.127.)
    (b) Each licensed manufacturer shall not later than the close of the 
next business day following the date of manufacture or other acquisition 
of explosive materials, enter the following information in a separate 
record:
    (1) Date of manufacture or other acquisition.
    (2) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (3) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (4) Name, brand name or description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents 
(ba), detonators (det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length 
and diameter or diameter only of display fireworks).
    (c) Each licensed manufacturer shall, not later than the close of 
the next business day following the date of distribution of any 
explosive materials to another licensee or a permittee, enter in a 
separate record the following information:
    (1) Date of disposition.
    (2) Name or brand name of manufacturer or name of importer, as 
applicable, if acquired other than by his own manufacture.
    (3) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (4) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (5) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks).
    (6) License or permit number of licensee or permittee to whom the 
explosive materials are distributed.
    (d) Each licensed manufacturer who manufactures explosive materials 
for his own use shall, not later than the close of the next business day 
following the date of use, enter in a separate record the following 
information:
    (1) Date of use.
    (2) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of special fireworks, etc.).
    (3) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks).

Exception: A licensed manufacturer is exempt from the recordkeeping 
requirements of this subsection if the explosive materials are 
manufactured for his own use and used within a 24 hour period at the 
same site.

    (e) The regional director (compliance) may authorize alternate 
records to be maintained by a licensed manufacturer to record his 
distribution or use of explosive materials when it is shown by the 
licensed manufacturer that alternate records will accurately and readily 
disclose the information required by paragraph (c) of this section. A 
licensed manufacturer who proposes to use alternate records shall submit 
a letter application to the regional director (compliance) and shall 
describe the proposed alternate records and the need for them. Alternate 
records are not to be employed by the licensed manufacturer until 
approval is received from the regional director (compliance).
    (f) Each licensed manufacturer shall maintain separate records of 
the sales or other distribution made of explosive materials to 
nonlicensees or nonpermittees. These records are maintained as 
prescribed by Sec. 55.126.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0373)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-172, 49 
FR 14941, Apr. 16, 1984; T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3721, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. 
ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.124  Records maintained by licensed dealers.

    (a) Each licensed dealer shall take true and accurate physical 
inventories which will include all explosive materials on hand required 
to be accounted for in the records kept under this part. The licensed 
dealer shall take a special inventory
    (1) At the time of commencing business, which is the effective date 
of the license issued upon original qualification under this part;

[[Page 757]]

    (2) At the time of changing the location of his premises to another 
region;
    (3) At the time of discontinuing business; and
    (4) At any other time the regional director (compliance) may in 
writing require. Each special inventory is to be prepared in duplicate, 
the original of which is submitted to the regional director 
(compliance), and the duplicate retained by the licensed dealer. If a 
special inventory required by paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of this 
section has not been taken during the calendar year, at least one 
physical inventory will be taken. However, the record of the yearly 
inventory, other than a special inventory required by paragraphs (a) (1) 
through (4) of this section, will remain on file for inspection instead 
of being sent to the regional director (compliance). (See also 
Sec. 55.127.)
    (b) Each licensed dealer shall, not later than the close of the next 
business day following the date of purchase or other acquisition of 
explosive materials (except as provided in paragraph (d) of this 
section), enter the following information in a separate record:
    (1) Date of acquisition.
    (2) Name or brand name of manufacturer and name of importer (if 
any).
    (3) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (4) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (5) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks).
    (6) Name, address, and license or permit number of the person from 
whom the explosive materials are received.
    (c) Each licensed dealer shall, not later than the close of the next 
business day following the date of use (if the explosives are used by 
the dealer) or the date of distribution of any explosive materials to 
another licensee or a permittee (except as provided in paragraph (d) of 
this section), enter in a separate record the following information:
    (1) Date of disposition.
    (2) Name or brand name of manufacturer and name of importer (if 
any).
    (3) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (4) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (5) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks).
    (6) License or permit number of licensee or permittee to whom the 
explosive materials are distributed.
    (d) When a commercial record is kept by a licensed dealer showing 
the purchase or other acquisition information required for the permanent 
record prescribed by paragraph (b) of this section, or showing the 
distribution information required for the permanent record prescribed by 
paragraph (c) of this section, the licensed dealer acquiring or 
distributing the explosive materials may, for a period not exceeding 
seven days following the date of acquisition of distribution of the 
explosive materials, delay making the required entry into the permanent 
record of acquisition or distribution. However, until the required entry 
of acquisition or disposition is made in the permanent record, the 
commercial record must be (1) kept by the licensed dealer separate from 
other commercial documents kept by the licensee, and (2) readily 
available for inspection on the licensed premises.
    (e) The regional director (compliance) may authorize alternate 
records to be maintained by a licensed dealer to record his acquisition 
or disposition of explosive materials, when it is shown by the licensed 
dealer that alternate records will accurately and readily disclose the 
required information. A licensed dealer who proposes to use alternate 
records shall submit a letter application to the regional director 
(compliance) and shall describe the proposed alternate records and the 
need for them. Alternate records are not to be employed by the licensed 
dealer until approval is received from the regional director 
(compliance).
    (f) Each licensed dealer shall maintain separate records of the 
sales or other distribution made of explosive

[[Page 758]]

materials to nonlicensees or nonpermittees. These records are maintained 
as prescribed by Sec. 55.126.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0373)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-172, 49 
FR 14941, Apr. 16, 1984; T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3721, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. 
ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.125  Records maintained by permittees.

    (a) Each permittee shall take true and accurate physical inventories 
which shall include all explosive materials on hand required to be 
accounted for in the records kept under this part. The permittee shall 
take a special inventory
    (1) At the time of commencing business, which is the effective date 
of the permit issued upon original qualification under this part;
    (2) At the time of changing the location of his premises to another 
region;
    (3) At the time of discontinuing business; and
    (4) At any other time the regional director (compliance) may in 
writing require. Each special inventory is to be prepared in duplicate, 
the original of which is submitted to the regional director (compliance) 
and the duplicate retained by the permittee. If a special inventory 
required by paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of this section has not been 
taken during the calendar year, a permittee is required to take at least 
one physical inventory. However, the record of the yearly inventory, 
other than a special inventory required by paragraphs (a) (1) through 
(4) of this section, will remain on file for inspection instead of being 
sent to the regional director (compliance). (See also Sec. 55.127).
    (b) Each permittee shall, not later than the close of the next 
business day following the date of acquisition of explosive materials, 
enter the following information in a separate record:
    (1) Date of acquisition.
    (2) Name or brand name of manufacturer.
    (3) Manufacturer's marks of identification.
    (4) Quantity (applicable quantity units, such as pounds of 
explosives, number of detonators, number of display fireworks, etc.).
    (5) Description (dynamite (dyn), blasting agents (ba), detonators 
(det), display fireworks (df), (etc.) and size (length and diameter or 
diameter only of display fireworks)).
    (6) Name, address, and license number of the persons from whom the 
explosive materials are received.
    (c) Each permittee shall, not later than the close of the next 
business day following the date of disposition of surplus explosive 
materials to another permittee or a licensee, enter in a separate record 
the information prescribed in Sec. 55.124(c).
    (d) Each permittee shall maintain separate records of disposition of 
surplus stocks of explosive materials to nonlicensees or nonpermittees 
as prescribed in Sec. 55.126.
    (e) The regional director (compliance) may authorize alternate 
records to be maintained by a permittee to record his acquisition of 
explosive materials, when it is shown by the permittee that alternate 
records will accurately and readily disclose the required information. A 
permittee who proposes to use alternate records shall submit a letter 
application to the regional director (compliance) and shall describe the 
proposed alternate records and the need for them. Alternate records are 
not to be employed by the permittee until approval is received from the 
regional director (compliance).

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0373)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-172, 49 
FR 14941, Apr. 16, 1984; T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. 
ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.126  Explosives transaction record.

    (a) A licensee or permittee shall not temporarily or permanently 
distribute explosive materials to any person, other than another 
licensee or permittee, unless he records the transaction on an 
explosives transaction record, ATF F 5400.4.
    (b) Before the distribution of explosive materials to a nonlicensee 
or nonpermittee who is a resident of the

[[Page 759]]

State in which the licensee or permittee maintains his business 
premises, or to a nonlicensee or nonpermittee who is not a resident of 
the State in which the licensee or permittee maintains his business 
premises and is acquiring explosive materials under Sec. 55.105(c), the 
licensee or permittee distributing the explosive materials shall obtain 
an executed ATF F 5400.4 from the distributee which contains all of the 
information required on the form and by the regulations in this part.
    (c) Completed ATF F 5400.4 is to be retained by the licensee or 
permittee as part of his permanent records in accordance with paragraph 
(d) of this section.
    (d) Each AFT F 5400.4 is retained in numerical (by transaction 
serial number) order commencing with ``1'' and continuing in regular 
sequence. When the numbering of any series reaches ``1,000,000,'' the 
licensee or permittee may recommence the series. The recommenced series 
is to be given an alphabetical prefix or suffix. Where there is a change 
in proprietorship, or in the individual, firm, corporate name or trade 
name, the series in use at the time of the change may be continued.
    (e) The requirements of this section are in addition to any other 
recordkeeping requirement contained in this part.
    (f) A licensee or permittee may obtain, upon request, a supply of 
ATF F 5400.4 from the Director.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0184)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-93, 46 
FR 50787, Oct. 15, 1981; T.D. ATF-172, 49 FR 14941, Apr. 16, 1984]

Sec. 55.127  Daily summary of magazine transactions.

    In taking the inventory required by Sec. Sec. 55.122, 55.123, 
55.124, and 55.125, a licensee or permittee shall enter the inventory in 
a record of daily summary transactions to be kept at each magazine of an 
approved storage facility; however, these records may be kept at one 
central location on the business premises if separate records of daily 
transactions are kept for each magazine. Not later than the close of the 
next business day, each licensee and permittee shall record by 
manufacturer's name or brand name, the total quantity received in and 
removed from each magazine during the day, and the total remaining on 
hand at the end of the day. Quantity entries for display fireworks may 
be expressed as the number and size of individual display fireworks in a 
finished state or as the number of packaged display segments or packaged 
displays. Information as to the number and size of display fireworks 
contained in any one packaged display segment or packaged display shall 
be provided to any ATF officer on request. Any discrepancy which might 
indicate a theft or loss of explosive materials is to be reported in 
acordance with Sec. 55.30.

[T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.128  Discontinuance of business.

    Where an explosive materials business or operations is discontinued 
and succeeded by a new licensee, the records prescribed by this subpart 
shall appropriately reflect such facts and shall be delivered to the 
successor. Where discontinuance of the business or operations is 
absolute, the records required by this subpart shall be delivered within 
30 days following the business or operations discontinuance to any ATF 
office located in the region in which the business was located, or to 
the ATF Firearms Out-of-Business Records Center, 3361F 75th Avenue, 
Landover, Maryland 20785. Where State law or local ordinance requires 
the delivery of records to other responsible authority, the Chief, 
Firearms and Explosives Licensing Center may arrange for the delivery of 
the records required by this subpart to such authority. (See also, 
Sec. 55.61.)

[T.D. ATF-290, 54 FR 53054, Dec. 27, 1989]

Sec. 55.129  Exportation.

    Exportation of explosive materials is to be in accordance with the 
applicable provisions of section 38 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 
U.S.C. 2778) and implementing regulations. However, a

[[Page 760]]

licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer exporting 
explosive materials shall maintain records showing the manufacture or 
acquisition of explosive materials as required by this part and records 
showing the quantity, the manufacturer's name or brand name of explosive 
materials, the name and address of the foreign consignee of the 
explosive materials, and the date the explosive materials were exported. 
See Sec. 55.180 for regulations concerning the exportation of plastic 
explosives.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-387, 62 
FR 8377, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.130  [Reserved]

                          Subpart H--Exemptions

Sec. 55.141  Exemptions.

    (a) General. Except for the provisions of Secs. 55.180 and 55.181, 
this part does not apply to:
    (1) Any aspect of the transportation of explosive materials via 
railroad, water, highway, or air which is regulated by the U.S. 
Department of Transportation and its agencies, and which pertains to 
safety.
    (2) The use of explosive materials in medicines and medicinal agents 
in the forms prescribed by the official United States Pharmacopeia or 
the National Formulary. ``The United States Pharmacopeia and The 
National Formulary,'' USP and NF Compendia, are available from the 
United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc., 12601 Twinbrook Parkway, 
Rockville, Maryland 20852.
    (3) The transportation, shipment, receipt, or importation of 
explosive materials for delivery to any agency of the United States or 
to any State or its political subdivision.
    (4) Small arms ammunition and components of small arms ammunition.
    (5) The manufacture under the regulation of the military department 
of the United States of explosive materials for, or their distribution 
to or storage or possession by, the military or naval services or other 
agencies of the United States.
    (6) Arsenals, navy yards, depots, or other establishments owned by, 
or operated by or on behalf of, the United States.
    (7) The importation, distribution, and storage of fireworks 
classified as UN0336, UN0337, UN0431, or UN0432 explosives by the U.S. 
Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 172.101 and generally known as 
``consumer fireworks'' or ``articles pyrotechnic.''
    (8) Gasoline, fertilizers, propellant actuated devices, or 
propellant actuated industrial tools manufactured, imported, or 
distributed for their intended purposes.
    (9) Industrial and laboratory chemicals which are intended for use 
as reagents and which are packaged and shipped pursuant to U.S. 
Department of Transportation regulations, 49 CFR Parts 100 to 177, which 
do not require explosives hazard warning labels.
    (b) Black powder. Except for the provisions applicable to persons 
required to be licensed under subpart D, this part does not apply with 
respect to commercially manufactured black powder in quantities not to 
exceed 50 pounds, percussion caps, safety and pyrotechnic fuses, quills, 
quick and slow matches, and friction primers, 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 
antique devices, as exempted from the term ``destructive devices'' in 18 
U.S.C. 921(a)(4).

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981 as amended by T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 
46916, Sept. 23, 1981; T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. ATF-
387, 62 FR 8377, Feb. 25, 1997; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 
1998]

Sec. 55.142  Relief from disabilities incurred by indictment, 
          information or conviction.

    (a) Any person may make application for relief from the disabilities 
under the Act incurred by reason of an indictment or information for, or 
conviction of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding 
one year.
    (b) An application for relief from disabilities is filed with the 
Director and supported by data that the applicant considers appropriate. 
In the case of a corporation, or of any person having

[[Page 761]]

the power to direct or control the management of the corporation, the 
supporting data is to include information as to the absence of 
culpability in the offense for which the corporation, or any such 
person, was indicted, formally accused or convicted.
    (c) The Director may grant relief to an applicant if it is 
established to the satisfaction of the Director that the circumstances 
regarding the indictment, information or conviction and the applicant's 
record and reputation are such that the applicant will not be likely to 
act in a manner dangerous to public safety, and that the granting of the 
relief would not be contrary to the public interest.
    (d) A person who has been granted relief under this section is 
relieved of any disabilities imposed by the Act with respect to engaging 
in the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in explosive 
materials, or the purchase of explosive materials, that were incurred by 
reason of such indictment, information or conviction.
    (e)(1) A licensee or permittee who is under indictment or 
information for, or convicted of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for 
a term exceeding one year during the term of a current license or 
permit, or while he has pending a license or permit renewal application, 
shall not be barred from licensed or permit operations for 30 days after 
the date of indictment or information or 30 days after the date upon 
which his conviction becomes final. Also, if he files his application 
for relief under this section within such 30 day period, he may further 
continue licensed or permit operations while his application is pending. 
A licensee or permittee who does not file an application within 30 days 
from the date of his indictment or information, or within 30 days from 
the date his conviction becomes final, shall not continue licensed or 
permit operations beyond 30 days from the date of his indictment or 
information or beyond 30 days from the date his conviction becomes 
final.
    (2) In the event the term of a license or permit of a person expires 
during the 30 day period following the date of indictment of information 
of during the 30 day period after the date upon which his conviction 
becomes final or while his application for relief is pending, he shall 
file a timely application for renewal of his license or permit in order 
to continue licensed or permit operations. The license or permit 
application is to show that the applicant has been indicted or under 
information for, or convicted of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for 
a term exceeding one year.
    (3) A licensee or permittee shall not continue licensed or permit 
operations beyond 30 days following the date the Director issues 
notification that the licensee's or permittee's application for removal 
of the disabilities resulting from an indictment, information or 
conviction has been denied.
    (4) When a licensee or permittee may no longer continue licensed or 
permit operations under this section, any application for renewal of 
license of permit filed by the licensee or permittee while his 
application for removal of disabilities resulting from an indictment, 
information or conviction is pending, will be denied by the regional 
director (compliance).

      Subpart I--Unlawful Acts, Penalties, Seizures and Forfeitures

Sec. 55.161  Engaging in business without a license.

    Any person engaging in the business of importing, manufacturing, or 
dealing in explosive materials without a license issued under the Act, 
shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than 10 
years, or both.

Sec. 55.162  False statement or representation.

    Any person who knowingly withholds information or makes any false or 
fictitious oral or written statement or furnishes or exhibits any false, 
fictitious, or misrepresented identification, intended or likely to 
deceive for the purpose of obtaining explosive materials, or a license, 
permit, exemption, or relief from disability under the Act, shall be 
fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than 10 years, or 
both.

Sec. 55.163  False entry in record.

    Any licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer, or 
permittee

[[Page 762]]

who knowingly makes any false entry in any record required to be kept 
under subpart G of this part, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or 
imprisoned not more than 10 years, or both.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.164  Unlawful storage.

    Any person who stores any explosive material in a manner not in 
conformity with this part, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or 
imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

Sec. 55.165  Failure to report theft or loss.

    Any person who has knowledge of the theft or loss of any explosive 
materials from his stock and fails to report the theft or loss within 24 
hours of discovery in accordance with Sec. 55.30, shall be fined not 
more than $1,000 or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

Sec. 55.166  Seizure or forfeiture.

    Any explosive materials involved or used or intended to be used in 
any violation of the Act or of this part or in any violation of any 
criminal law of the United States are subject to seizure and forfeiture, 
and all provisions of title 26, U.S.C. relating to the seizure, 
forfeiture, and disposition of firearms, as defined in 26 U.S.C. 
5845(a), will, so far as applicable, extend to seizures and forfeitures 
under the Act. (See Sec. 72.27 of this title for regulations on summary 
destruction of explosive materials which are impracticable or unsafe to 
remove to a place of storage.)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-363, 60 
FR 17449, Apr. 6, 1995]

                Subpart J--Marking of Plastic Explosives

Sec. 55.180  Prohibitions relating to unmarked plastic explosives.

    (a) No person shall manufacture any plastic explosive that does not 
contain a detection agent.
    (b) No person shall import or bring into the United States, or 
export from the United States, any plastic explosive that does not 
contain a detection agent. This paragraph does not apply to the 
importation or bringing into the United States, or the exportation from 
the United States, of any plastic explosive that was imported or brought 
into, or manufactured in the United States prior to April 24, 1996, by 
or on behalf of any agency of the United States performing military or 
police functions (including any military reserve component) or by or on 
behalf of the National Guard of any State, not later than 15 years after 
the date of entry into force of the Convention on the Marking of Plastic 
Explosives with respect to the United States.
    (c) No person shall ship, transport, transfer, receive, or possess 
any plastic explosive that does not contain a detection agent. This 
paragraph does not apply to:
    (1) The shipment, transportation, transfer, receipt, or possession 
of any plastic explosive that was imported or brought into, or 
manufactured in the United States prior to April 24, 1996, by any person 
during the period beginning on that date and ending on April 24, 1999; 
or
    (2) The shipment, transportation, transfer, receipt, or possession 
of any plastic explosive that was imported or brought into, or 
manufactured in the United States prior to April 24, 1996, by or on 
behalf of any agency of the United States performing a military or 
police function (including any military reserve component) or by or on 
behalf of the National Guard of any State, not later than 15 years after 
the date of entry into force of the Convention on the Marking of Plastic 
Explosives with respect to the United States.
    (d) When used in this subpart, terms are defined as follows:
    (1) Convention on the Marking of Plastic Explosives means the 
Convention on the Marking of Plastic Explosives for the Purposes of 
Detection, Done at Montreal on 1 March 1991.
    (2) Date of entry into force of the Convention on the Marking of 
Plastic Explosives means that date on which the Convention enters into 
force with respect to the U.S. in accordance with the provisions of 
Article XIII of the Convention on the Marking of Plastic Explosives.

[[Page 763]]

    (3) Detection agent means any one of the substances specified in 
this paragraph when introduced into a plastic explosive or formulated in 
such explosive as a part of the manufacturing process in such a manner 
as to achieve homogeneous distribution in the finished explosive, 
including--
    (i) Ethylene glycol dinitrate (EGDN), 
C<INF>2</INF>H<INF>4</INF>(NO<INF>3</INF>)<INF>2</INF>, molecular weight 
152, when the minimum concentration in the finished explosive is 0.2 
percent by mass;
    (ii) 2,3-Dimethyl-2,3-dinitrobutane (DMNB), 
C<INF>6</INF>H<INF>12</INF>(NO<INF>2</INF>)<INF>2</INF>, molecular 
weight 176, when the minimum concentration in the finished explosive is 
0.1 percent by mass;
    (iii) Para-Mononitrotoluene (p-MNT), 
C<INF>7</INF>H<INF>7</INF>NO<INF>2</INF>, molecular weight 137, when the 
minimum concentration in the finished explosive is 0.5 percent by mass;
    (iv) Ortho-Mononitrotoluene (o-MNT), 
C<INF>7</INF>H<INF>7</INF>NO<INF>2</INF>, molecular weight 137, when the 
minimum concentration in the finished explosive is 0.5 percent by mass; 
and
    (v) Any other substance in the concentration specified by the 
Director, after consultation with the Secretary of State and Secretary 
of Defense, that has been added to the table in Part 2 of the Technical 
Annex to the Convention on the Marking of Plastic Explosives.
    (4) Plastic explosive means an explosive material in flexible or 
elastic sheet form formulated with one or more high explosives which in 
their pure form has a vapor pressure less than 10-\4\ Pa at a 
temperature of 25  deg.C, is formulated with a binder material, and is 
as a mixture malleable or flexible at normal room temperature. High 
explosives, as defined in Sec. 55.202(a), are explosive materials which 
can be caused to detonate by means of a blasting cap when unconfined.

[T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8376, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.181  Reporting of plastic explosives.

    All persons, other than an agency of the United States (including 
any military reserve component) or the National Guard of any State, 
possessing any plastic explosive on April 24, 1996, shall submit a 
report to the Director no later than August 22, 1996. The report shall 
be in writing and mailed by certified mail (return receipt requested) to 
the Director at P.O. Box 50204, Washington, DC 20091-0204. The report 
shall include the quantity of plastic explosives possessed on April 24, 
1996; any marks of identification on such explosives; the name and 
address of the manufacturer or importer; the storage location of such 
explosives, including the city and State; and the name and address of 
the person possessing the plastic explosives.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 
1512-0535)

[T.D. ATF-382, 61 FR 38085, July 23, 1996, as amended by T.D. ATF-387, 
62 FR 8377, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.182  Exceptions.

    It is an affirmative defense against any proceeding involving 
Secs. 55.180 and 55.181 if the proponent proves by a preponderance of 
the evidence that the plastic explosive--
    (a) Consisted of a small amount of plastic explosive intended for 
and utilized solely in lawful--
    (1) Research, development, or testing of new or modified explosive 
materials;
    (2) Training in explosives detection or development or testing of 
explosives detection equipment; or
    (3) Forensic science purposes; or
    (b) Was plastic explosive that, by April 24, 1999, will be or is 
incorporated in a military device within the territory of the United 
States and remains an integral part of such military device, or is 
intended to be, or is incorporated in, and remains an integral part of a 
military device that is intended to become, or has become, the property 
of any agency of the United States performing military or police 
functions (including any military reserve component) or the National 
Guard of any State, wherever such device is located. For purposes of 
this paragraph, the term ``military device'' includes, but is not 
restricted to, shells, bombs, projectiles, mines, missiles, rockets, 
shaped charges, grenades, perforators, and similar devices lawfully 
manufactured exclusively for military or police purposes.

[T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8377, Feb. 25, 1997]

[[Page 764]]

Sec. 55.183  Importation of plastic explosives on or after April 24, 
          1997.

    Persons filing Form 6 applications for the importation of plastic 
explosives on or after April 24, 1997, shall attach to the application 
the following written statement, prepared in triplicate, executed under 
the penalties of perjury:
    (a) ``I declare under the penalties of perjury that the plastic 
explosive to be imported contains a detection agent as required by 27 
CFR 55.180(b)''; or
    (b) ``I declare under the penalties of perjury that the plastic 
explosive to be imported is a ``small amount'' to be used for research, 
training, or testing purposes and is exempt from the detection agent 
requirement pursuant to 27 CFR 55.182.''

[T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8377, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.184  Statements of process and samples.

    (a) A complete and accurate statement of process with regard to any 
plastic explosive or to any detection agent that is to be introduced 
into a plastic explosive or formulated in such plastic explosive shall 
be submitted by a licensed manufacturer or licensed importer, upon 
request, to the Director.
    (b) Samples of any plastic explosive or detection agent shall be 
submitted by a licensed manufacturer or licensed importer, upon request, 
to the Director.

(Paragraph (a) approved by the Office of Management and Budget under 
control number 1512-0539)


[T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8378, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.185  Criminal sanctions.

    Any person who violates the provisions of 18 U.S.C. 842(l)-(o) shall 
be fined under title 18, U.S.C., imprisoned for not more than 10 years, 
or both.

[T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8378, Feb. 25, 1997]

Sec. 55.186  Seizure or forfeiture.

    Any plastic explosive that does not contain a detection agent in 
violation of 18 U.S.C. 842(l)-(n) is subject to seizure and forfeiture, 
and all provisions of 19 U.S.C. 1595a, relating to seizure, forfeiture, 
and disposition of merchandise introduced or attempted to be introduced 
into the U.S. contrary to law, shall extend to seizures and forfeitures 
under this subpart. See Sec. 72.27 of this chapter for regulations on 
summary destruction of plastic explosives that do not contain a 
detection agent.

[T.D. ATF-387, 62 FR 8378, Feb. 25, 1997]

                           Subpart K--Storage

Sec. 55.201  General.

    (a) Section 842(j) of the Act and Sec. 55.29 of this part require 
that the storage of explosive materials by any person must be in 
accordance with the regulations in this part. Further, section 846 of 
this Act authorizes regulations to prevent the recurrence of accidental 
explosions in which explosive materials were involved. The storage 
standards prescribed by this subpart confer no right or privileges to 
store explosive materials in a manner contrary to State or local law.
    (b) The Director may authorize alternate construction for explosives 
storage magazines when it is shown that the alternate magazine 
construction is substantially equivalent to the standards of safety and 
security contained in this subpart. Any alternate explosive magazine 
construction approved by the Director prior to August 9, 1982, will 
continue as approved unless notified in writing by the Director. Any 
person intending to use alternate magazine construction shall submit a 
letter application to the regional director (compliance) for transmittal 
to the Director, specifically describing the proposed magazine. 
Explosive materials may not be stored in alternate magazines before the 
applicant has been notified that the application has been approved.
    (c) A licensee or permittee who intends to make changes in his 
magazines, or who intends to construct or acquire additional magazines, 
shall comply with Sec. 55.63.
    (d) The regulations set forth in Sec. Sec. 55.221 through 55.224 
pertain to the storage of display fireworks, pyrotechnic compositions, 
and explosive materials used in assembling fireworks and articles 
pyrotechnic.
    (e) The provisions of Sec. 55.202(a) classifying flash powder and 
bulk salutes as high explosives are mandatory

[[Page 765]]

after March 7, 1990: Provided, that those persons who hold licenses or 
permits under this part on that date shall, with respect to the premises 
covered by such licenses or permits, comply with the high explosives 
storage requirements for flash powder and bulk salutes by March 7, 1991.
    (f) Any person who stores explosive materials shall notify the 
authority having jurisdiction for fire safety in the locality in which 
the explosive materials are being stored of the type, magazine capacity, 
and location of each site where such explosive materials are stored. 
Such notification shall be made orally before the end of the day on 
which storage of the explosive materials commenced and in writing within 
48 hours from the time such storage commenced.

(Paragraph (f) approved by the Office of Management and Budget under 
control number 1512-0536)

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-293, 55 
FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.202  Classes of explosive materials.

    For purposes of this part, there are three classes of explosive 
materials. These classes, together with the description of explosive 
materials comprising each class, are as follows:
    (a) High explosives. Explosive materials which can be caused to 
detonate by means of a blasting cap when unconfined, (for example, 
dynamite, flash powders, and bulk salutes). See also Sec. 55.201(e).
    (b) Low explosives. Explosive materials which can be caused to 
deflagrate when confined (for example, black powder, safety fuses, 
igniters, igniter cords, fuse lighters, and ``display fireworks'' 
classified as UN0333, UN0334, or UN0335 by the U.S. Department of 
Transportation regulations at 49 CFR 172.101, except for bulk salutes).
    (c) Blasting agents. (For example, ammonium nitrate-fuel oil and 
certain water-gels (see also Sec. 55.11).

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-293, 55 
FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.203  Types of magazines.

    For purposes of this part, there are five types of magazines. These 
types, together with the classes of explosive materials, as defined in 
Sec. 55.202, which will be stored in them, are as follows:
    (a) Type 1 magazines. Permanent magazines for the storage of high 
explosives, subject to the limitations prescribed by Secs. 55.206 and 
55.213. Other classes of explosive materials may also be stored in type 
1 magazines.
    (b) Type 2 magazines. Mobile and portable indoor and outdoor 
magazines for the storage of high explosives, subject to the limitations 
prescribed by Secs. 55.206, 55.208(b), and 55.213. Other classes of 
explosive materials may also be stored in type 2 magazines.
    (c) Type 3 magazines. Portable outdoor magazines for the temporary 
storage of high explosives while attended (for example, a ``day-box''), 
subject to the limitations prescribed by Secs. 55.206 and 55.213. Other 
classes of explosives materials may also be stored in type 3 magazines.
    (d) Type 4 magazines. Magazines for the storage of low explosives, 
subject to the limitations prescribed by Secs. 55.206(b), 55.210(b), and 
55.213. Blasting agents may be stored in type 4 magazines, subject to 
the limitations prescribed by Secs. 55.206(c), 55.211(b), and 55.213. 
Detonators that will not mass detonate may also be stored in type 4 
magazines, subject to the limitations prescribed by Secs. 55.206(a), 
55.210(b), and 55.213.
    (e) Type 5 magazines. Magazines for the storage of blasting agents, 
subject to the limitations prescribed by Secs. 55.206(c), 55.211(b), and 
55.213.

Sec. 55.204  Inspection of magazines.

    Any person storing explosive materials shall inspect his magazines 
at least every seven days. This inspection need not be an inventory, but 
must be sufficient to determine whether there has been unauthorized 
entry or attempted entry into the magazines, or unauthorized removal of 
the contents of the magazines.

Sec. 55.205  Movement of explosive materials.

    All explosive materials must be kept in locked magazines meeting the

[[Page 766]]

standards in this subpart unless they are:
    (a) In the process of manufacture;
    (b) Being physically handled in the operating process of a licensee 
or user;
    (c) Being used; or
    (d) Being transported to a place of storage or use by a licensee or 
permittee or by a person who has lawfully acquired explosive materials 
under Sec. 55.106.

Sec. 55.206  Location of magazines.

    (a) Outdoor magazines in which high explosives are stored must be 
located no closer to inhabited buildings, passenger railways, public 
highways, or other magazines in which high explosives are stored, than 
the minimum distances specified in the table of distances for storage of 
explosive materials in Sec. 55.218.
    (b) Outdoor magazines in which low explosives are stored must be 
located no closer to inhibited buildings, passenger railways, public 
highways, or other magazines in which explosive materials are stored, 
than the minimum distances specified in the table of distances for 
storage of low explosives in Sec. 55.219, except that the table of 
distances in Sec. 55.224 shall apply to the storage of display 
fireworks. The distances shown in Sec. 55.219 may not be reduced by the 
presence of barricades.
    (c)(1) Outdoor magazines in which blasting agents in quantities of 
more than 50 pounds are stored must be located no closer to inhabited 
buildings, passenger railways, or public highways than the minimum 
distances specified in the table of distances for storage of explosive 
materials in Sec. 55.218.
    (2) Ammonium nitrate and magazines in which blasting agents are 
stored must be located no closer to magazines in which high explosives 
or other blasting agents are stored than the minimum distances specified 
in the table of distances for the separation of ammonium nitrate and 
blasting agents in Sec. 55.220. However, the minimum distances for 
magazines in which explosives and blasting agents are stored from 
inhabited buildings, etc., may not be less than the distances specified 
in the table of distances for storage of explosives materials in 
Sec. 55.218.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-293, 55 
FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990; T.D. ATF-400, 63 FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.207  Construction of type 1 magazines.

    A type 1 magazine is a permanent structure: a building, an igloo or 
``Army-type structure'', a tunnel, or a dugout. It is to be bullet-
resistant, fire-resistant, weather-resistant, theft-resistant, and 
ventilated.
    (a) Buildings. All building type magazines are to be constructed of 
masonry, wood, metal, or a combination of these materials, and have no 
openings except for entrances and ventilation. The ground around 
building magazines must slope away for drainage or other adequate 
drainage provided.
    (1) Masonry wall construction. Masonry wall construction is to 
consist of brick, concrete, tile, cement block, or cinder block and be 
not less than 6 inches in thickness. Hollow masonry units used in 
construction must have all hollow spaces filled with well-tamped, 
coarse, dry sand or weak concrete (at least a mixture of one part cement 
and eight parts of sand with enough water to dampen the mixture while 
tamping in place). Interior walls are to be constructed of, or covered 
with, a nonsparking material.
    (2) Fabricated metal wall construction. Metal wall construction is 
to consist of sectional sheets of steel or aluminum not less than number 
14-gauge, securely fastened to a metal framework. Metal wall 
construction is either lined inside with brick, solid cement blocks, 
hardwood not less than four inches thick, or will have at least a six 
inch sand fill between interior and exterior walls. Interior walls are 
to be constructed of, or covered with, a nonsparking material.
    (3) Wood frame wall construction. The exterior of outer wood walls 
is to be covered with iron or aluminum not less than number 26-gauge. An 
inner wall of, or covered with nonsparking material will be constructed 
so as to provide a space of not less than six inches between the outer 
and inner walls. The space is to be filled with coarse, dry sand or weak 
concrete.

[[Page 767]]

    (4) Floors. Floors are to be constructed of, or covered with, a 
nonsparking material and shall be strong enough to bear the weight of 
the maximum quantity to be stored. Use of pallets covered with a 
nonsparking material is considered equivalent to a floor constructed of 
or covered with a nonsparking material.
    (5) Foundations. Foundations are to be constructed of brick, 
concrete, cement block, stone, or wood posts. If piers or posts are 
used, in lieu of a continuous foundation, the space under the buildings 
is to be enclosed with metal.
    (6) Roof. Except for buildings with fabricated metal roofs, the 
outer roof is to be covered with no less than number 26-guage iron or 
aluminum, fastened to at least \7/8\ inch sheathing.
    (7) Bullet-resistant ceilings or roofs. Where it is possible for a 
bullet to be fired directly through the roof and into the magazine at 
such an angle that the bullet would strike the explosives within, the 
magazine is to be protected by one of the following methods:
    (i) A sand tray lined with a layer of building paper, plastic, or 
other nonporous material, and filled with not less than four inches of 
coarse, dry sand, and located at the tops of inner walls covering the 
entire ceiling area, except that portion necessary for ventilation.
    (ii) A fabricated metal roof constructed of \3/16\-inch plate steel 
lined with four inches of hardwood. (For each additional \1/16\ inch of 
plate steel, the hardwood lining may be decreased one inch.)
    (8) Doors. All doors are to be constructed of not less than \1/4\ 
inch plate steel and lined with at least two inches of hardwood. Hinges 
and hasps are to be attached to the doors by welding, riveting or 
bolting (nuts on inside of door). They are to be installed in such a 
manner that the hinges and hasps cannot be removed when the doors are 
closed and locked.
    (9) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlock fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and a padlock; (iv) a mortise lock that 
requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must have 
at least five tumblers and a casehardened shackle of at least \3/8\ inch 
diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\ inch steel 
hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on the locks, 
hasps, and staples. These requirements do not apply to magazine doors 
that are adequately secured on the inside by means of a bolt, lock, or 
bar that cannot be actuated from the outside.
    (10) Ventilation. Ventilation is to be provided to prevent dampness 
and heating of stored explosive materials. Ventilation openings must be 
screened to prevent the entrance of sparks. Ventilation openings in side 
walls and foundations must be offset or shielded for bullet-resistant 
purposes. Magazines having foundation and roof ventilators with the air 
circulating between the side walls and the floors and between the side 
walls and the ceiling must have a wooden lattice lining or equivalent to 
prevent the packages of explosive materials from being stacked against 
the side walls and blocking the air circulation.
    (11) Exposed metal. No sparking material is to be exposed to contact 
with the stored explosive materials. All ferrous metal nails in the 
floor and side walls, which might be exposed to contact with explosive 
materials, must be blind nailed, countersunk, or covered with a 
nonsparking lattice work or other nonsparking material.
    (b) Igloos, ``Army-type structures'', tunnels, and dugouts. Igloo, 
``Army-type structure'', tunnel, and dugout magazines are to be 
constructed of reinforced concrete, masonry, metal, or a combination of 
these materials. They must have an earthmound covering of not less than 
24 inches on the top, sides and rear unless the magazine meets the 
requirements of paragraph (a)(7) of this section. Interior walls and 
floors must be constructed of, or covered with, a nonsparking material. 
Magazines of this type are also to be constructed in conformity with the 
requirements of paragraph (a)(4) and paragraphs (a)(8) through (11) of 
this section.

Sec. 55.208  Construction of type 2 magazines.

    A type 2 magazine is a box, trailer, semitrailer, or other mobile 
facility.

[[Page 768]]

    (a) Outdoor magazines--(1) General. Outdoor magazines are to be 
bullet-resistant, fire-resistant, weather-resistant, theft-resistant, 
and ventilated. They are to be supported to prevent direct contact with 
the ground and, if less than one cubic yard in size, must be securely 
fastened to a fixed object. The ground around outdoor magazines must 
slope away for drainage or other adequate drainage provided. When 
unattended, vehicular magazines must have wheels removed or otherwise 
effectively immobiliized by kingpin locking devices or other methods 
approved by the Director.
    (2) Exterior construction. The exterior and doors are to be 
constructed of not less than \1/4\-inch steel and lined with at least 
two inches of hardwood. Magazines with top openings will have lids with 
water-resistant seals or which overlap the sides by at least one inch 
when in a closed position.
    (3) Hinges and hasps. Hinges and hasps are to be attached to doors 
by welding, riveting, or bolting (nuts on inside of door). Hinges and 
hasps must be installed so that they cannot be removed when the doors 
are closed and locked.
    (4) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlocks fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and a padlock; (iv) a mortise lock that 
requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must have 
at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least \3/8\-
inch diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\-inch 
steel hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on the 
locks, hasps, and staples. These requirements do not apply to magazine 
doors that are adequately secured on the inside by means of a bolt, 
lock, or bar that cannot be actuated from the outside.
    (b) Indoor magazines--(1) General. Indoor magazines are to be fire-
resistant and theft-resistant. They need not be bullet-resistant and 
weather-resistant if the buildings in which they are stored provide 
protection from the weather and from bullet penetration. No indoor 
magazine is to be located in a residence or dwelling. The indoor storage 
of high explosives must not exceed a quantity of 50 pounds. More than 
one indoor magazine may be located in the same building if the total 
quantity of explosive materials stored does not exceed 50 pounds. 
Detonators must be stored in a separate magazine (except as provided in 
Sec. 55.213) and the total quantity of detonators must not exceed 5,000.
    (2) Exterior construction. Indoor magazines are to be constructed of 
wood or metal according to one of the following specifications:
    (i) Wood indoor magazines are to have sides, bottoms and doors 
constructed of at least two inches of hardwood and are to be well braced 
at the corners. They are to be covered with sheet metal of not less than 
number 26-gauge (.0179 inches). Nails exposed to the interior of 
magazines must be countersunk.
    (ii) Metal indoor magazines are to have sides, bottoms and doors 
constructed of not less than number 12-gauge (.1046 inches) metal and be 
lined inside with a nonsparking material. Edges of metal covers must 
overlap sides at least one inch.
    (3) Hinges and hasps. Hinges and hasps are to be attached to doors 
by welding, riveting, or bolting (nuts on inside of door). Hinges and 
hasps must be installed so that they cannot be removed when the doors 
are closed and locked.
    (4) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlocks fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and a padlock; (iv) a mortise lock that 
requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must have 
at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least \3/8\-
inch diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\-inch 
steel hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on the 
locks, hasps, and staples. Indoor magazines located in secure rooms that 
are locked as provided in this subparagraph may have each door locked 
with one steel padlock (which need not be protected by a steel hood) 
having at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least 
\3/8\-inch diameter, if the door hinges and lock hasp are securely 
fastened to the magazine. These requirements do not apply to magazine 
doors that are adequately secured on the inside by means

[[Page 769]]

of a bolt, lock, or bar that cannot be actuated from the outside.
    (c) Detonator boxes. Magazines for detonators in quantities of 100 
or less are to have sides, bottoms and doors constructed of not less 
than number 12-gauge (.1046 inches) metal and lined with a nonsparking 
material. Hinges and hasps must be attached so they cannot be removed 
from the outside. One steel padlock (which need not be protected by a 
steel hood) having at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of 
at least \3/8\-inch diameter is sufficient for locking purposes.

Sec. 55.209  Construction of type 3 magazines.

    A type 3 magazine is a ``day-box'' or other portable magazine. It 
must be fire-resistant, weather-resistant, and theft-resistant. A type 3 
magazine is to be constructed of not less than number 12-gauge (.1046 
inches) steel, lined with at least either \1/2\-inch plywood or \1/2\-
inch Masonite-type hardboard. Doors must overlap sides by at least one 
inch. Hinges and hasps are to be attached by welding, riveting or 
bolting (nuts on inside). One steel padlock (which need not be protected 
by a steel hood) having at least five tumblers and a case-hardened 
shackle of at least \3/8\-inch diameter is sufficient for locking 
purposes. Explosive materials are not to be left unattended in type 3 
magazines and must be removed to type 1 or 2 magazines for unattended 
storage.

Sec. 55.210  Construction of type 4 magazines.

    A type 4 magazine is a building, igloo or ``Army-type structure'', 
tunnel, dugout, box, trailer, or a semitrailer or other mobile magazine.
    (a) Outdoor magazines--(1) General. Outdoor magazines are to be 
fire-resistant, weather-resistant, and theft-resistant. The ground 
around outdoor magazines must slope away for drainage or other adequate 
drainage be provided. When unattended, vehicular magazines must have 
wheels removed or otherwise be effectively immobilized by kingpin 
locking devices or other methods approved by the Director.
    (2) Construction. Outdoor magazines are to be constructed of 
masonry, metal-covered wood, fabricated metal, or a combination of these 
materials. Foundations are to be constructed of brick, concrete, cement 
block, stone, or metal or wood posts. If piers or posts are used, in 
lieu of a continuous foundation, the space under the building is to be 
enclosed with fire-resistant material. The walls and floors are to be 
constructed of, or covered with, a nonsparking material or lattice work. 
The doors must be metal or solid wood covered with metal.
    (3) Hinges and hasps. Hinges and hasps are to be attached to doors 
by welding, riveting, or bolting (nuts on inside of door). Hinges and 
hasps must be installed so that they cannot be removed when the doors 
are closed and locked.
    (4) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlocks fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and a padlock; (iv) a mortise lock that 
requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must have 
at least five tumblers and case-hardened shackle of at least \3/8\ inch 
diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\ inch steel 
hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on the locks, 
hasps, and staples. These requirements do not apply to magazine doors 
that are adequately secured on the inside by means of a bolt, lock, or 
bar that cannot be actuated from the outside.
    (b) Indoor magazine--(1) General. Indoor magazines are to be fire-
resistant and theft-resistant. They need not be weather-resistant if the 
buildings in which they are stored provide protection from the weather. 
No indoor magazine is to be located in a residence or dwelling. The 
indoor storage of low explosives must not exceed a quantity of 50 
pounds. More than one indoor magazine may be located in the same 
building if the total quantity of explosive materials stored does not 
exceed 50 pounds. Detonators that will not mass detonate must be stored 
in a separate magazine and the total number of electric detonators must 
not exceed 5,000.
    (2) Construction. Indoor magazines are to be constructed of masonry, 
metal-covered wood, fabricated metal, or a combination of these 
materials. The walls and floors are to be constructed

[[Page 770]]

of, or covered with, a nonsparking material. The doors must be metal or 
solid wood covered with metal.
    (3) Hinges and hasps. Hinges and hasps are to be attached to doors 
by welding, riveting, or bolting (nuts on inside of door). Hinges and 
hasps must be installed so that they cannot be removed when the doors 
are closed and locked.
    (4) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlocks fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and padlock; (iv) a mortise lock that 
requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must have 
at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least \3/8\ 
inch diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\ inch 
steel hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on the 
locks, hasps, and staples. Indoor magazines located in secure rooms that 
are locked as provided in this subparagraph may have each door locked 
with one steel padlock (which need not be protected by a steel hood) 
having at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least 
\3/8\ inch diameter, if the door hinges and lock hasp are securely 
fastened to the magazine. These requirements do not apply to magazine 
doors that are adequately secured on the inside by means of a bolt, 
lock, or bar that cannot be actuated from the outside.

Sec. 55.211  Construction of type 5 magazines.

    A type 5 magazine is a building, igloo or ``Army-type structure'', 
tunnel, dugout, bin, box, trailer, or a semitrailer or other mobile 
facility.
    (a) Outdoor magazines--(1) General. Outdoor magazines are to be 
weather-resistant and theft-resistant. The ground around magazines must 
slope away for drainage or other adequate drainage be provided. When 
unattended, vehicular magazines must have wheels removed or otherwise be 
effectively immobilized by kingpin locking devices or other methods 
approved by the Director.
    (2) Construction. The doors are to be constructed of solid wood or 
metal.
    (3) Hinges and hasps. Hinges and hasps are to be attached to doors 
by welding, riveting, or bolting (nuts on inside of door). Hinges and 
hasps must be installed so that they cannot be removed when the doors 
are closed and locked.
    (4) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlocks fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and a padlock; (iv) a mortise lock that 
requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must have 
at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least \3/8\ 
inch diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\ inch 
steel hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on the 
locks, hasps, and staples. Trailers, semitrailers, and similar vehicular 
magazines may, for each door, be locked with one steel padlock (which 
need not be protected by a steel hood) having at least five tumblers and 
a case-hardened shackle of at least \3/8\ inch diameter, if the door 
hinges and lock hasp are securely fastened to the magazine and to the 
door frame. These requirements do not apply to magazine doors that are 
adequately secured on the inside by means of a bolt, lock, or bar that 
cannot be actuated from the outside.
    (5) Placards. The placards required by Department of Transportation 
regulations at 49 CFR part 172, subpart F, for the transportation of 
blasting agents shall be displayed on all magazines.
    (b) Indoor magazines--(1) General. Indoor magazines are to be theft-
resistant. They need not be weather-resistant if the buildings in which 
they are stored provide protection from the weather. No indoor magazine 
is to be located in a residence or dwelling. Indoor magazines containing 
quantities of blasting agents in excess of 50 pounds are subject to the 
requirements of Sec. 55.206 of this subpart.
    (2) Construction. The doors are to be constructed of wood or metal.
    (3) Hinges and hasps. Hinges and hasps are to be attached to doors 
by welding, riveting, or bolting (nuts on inside). Hinges and hasps must 
be installed so that they cannot be removed when the doors are closed 
and locked.
    (4) Locks. Each door is to be equipped with (i) two mortise locks; 
(ii) two padlocks fastened in separate hasps and staples; (iii) a 
combination of a mortise lock and a padlock; (iv) a mortise lock

[[Page 771]]

that requires two keys to open; or (v) a three-point lock. Padlocks must 
have at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at least \3/
8\ inch diameter. Padlocks must be protected with not less than \1/4\ 
inch steel hoods constructed so as to prevent sawing or lever action on 
the locks, hasps, and staples. Indoor magazines located in secure rooms 
that are locked as provided in this subparagraph may have each door 
locked with one steel padlock (which need not be protected by a steel 
hood) having at least five tumblers and a case-hardened shackle of at 
least \3/8\ inch diameter, if the door hinges and lock hasps are 
securely fastened to the magazine and to the door frame. These 
requirements do not apply to magazine doors that are adequately secured 
on the inside by means of a bolt, lock, or bar that cannot be actuated 
from the outside.

[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-298, 55 
FR 21863, May 30, 1990]

Sec. 55.212  Smoking and open flames.

    Smoking, matches, open flames, and spark producing devices are not 
permitted:
    (a) In any magazine;
    (b) Within 50 feet of any outdoor magazine; or
    (c) Within any room containing an indoor magazine.

Sec. 55.213  Quantity and storage restrictions.

    (a) Explosive materials in excess of 300,000 pounds or detonators in 
excess of 20 million are not to be stored in one magazine unless 
approved by the Director.
    (b) Detonators are not to be stored in the same magazine with other 
explosive materials, except under the following circumstances:
    (1) In a type 4 magazine, detonators that will not mass detonate may 
be stored with electric squibs, safety fuse, igniters, and igniter cord.
    (2) In a type 1 or type 2 magazine, detonators may be stored with 
delay devices and any of the items listed in paragraph (b)(1) of this 
section.

Sec. 55.214  Storage within types 1, 2, 3, and 4 magazines.

    (a) Explosive materials within a magazine are not to be placed 
directly against interior walls and must be stored so as not to 
interfere with ventilation. To prevent contact of stored explosive 
materials with walls, a nonsparking lattice work or other nonsparking 
material may be used.
    (b) Containers of explosive materials are to be stored so that marks 
are visible. Stocks of explosive materials are to be stored so they can 
be easily counted and checked upon inspection.
    (c) Except with respect to fiberboard or other nonmetal containers, 
containers of explosive materials are not to be unpacked or repacked 
inside a magazine or within 50 feet of a magazine, and must not be 
unpacked or repacked close to other explosive materials. Containers of 
explosive materials must be closed while being stored.
    (d) Tools used for opening or closing containers of explosive 
materials are to be of nonsparking materials, except that metal slitters 
may be used for opening fiberboard containers. A wood wedge and a fiber, 
rubber, or wooden mallet are to be used for opening or closing wood 
containers of explosive materials. Metal tools other than nonsparking 
transfer conveyors are not to be stored in any magazine containing high 
explosives.

Sec. 55.215  Housekeeping.

    Magazines are to be kept clean, dry, and free of grit, paper, empty 
packages and containers, and rubbish. Floors are to be regularly swept. 
Brooms and other utensils used in the cleaning and maintenance of 
magazines must have no spark-producing metal parts, and may be kept in 
magazines. Floors stained by leakage from explosive materials are to be 
cleaned according to instructions of the explosives manufacturer. When 
any explosive material has deteriorated it is to be destroyed in 
accordance with the advice or instructions of the manufacturer. The area 
surrounding magazines is to be kept clear of rubbish, brush, dry grass, 
or trees (except live trees more than 10 feet tall), for not less than 
25 feet in all directions. Volatile materials are to be kept a distance 
of not less than 50 feet

[[Page 772]]

from outdoor magazines. Living foliage which is used to stabilize the 
earthen covering of a magazine need not be removed.

Sec. 55.216  Repair of magazines.

    Before repairing the interior of magazines, all explosive materials 
are to be removed and the interior cleaned. Before repairing the 
exterior of magazines, all explosive materials must be removed if there 
exists any possibility that repairs may produce sparks or flame. 
Explosive materials removed from magazines under repair must be (a) 
placed in other magazines appropriate for the storage of those explosive 
materials under this subpart, or (b) placed a safe distance from the 
magazines under repair where they are to be properly guarded and 
protected until the repairs have been completed.

Sec. 55.217  Lighting.

    (a) Battery-activated safety lights or battery-activated safety 
lanterns may be used in explosives storage magazines.
    (b) Electric lighting used in any explosives storage magazine must 
meet the standards prescribed by the ``National Electrical Code,'' 
(National Fire Protection Association, NFPA 70-81), for the conditions 
present in the magazine at any time. All electrical switches are to be 
located outside of the magazine and also meet the standards prescribed 
by the National Electrical Code.
    (c) Copies of invoices, work orders or similar documents which 
indicate the lighting complies with the National Electrical Code must be 
available for inspection by ATF officers.

Sec. 55.218  Table of distances for storage of explosive materials.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Quantity of explosives                                                          Distances in feet
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Inhabited buildings        Public highways with traffic     Passenger railways--public        Separation of magazines
                         --------------------------------  volume 3000 or less vehicles/   highways with traffic volume  -------------------------------
              Pounds not                                                day                 of more than 3,000 vehicles
Pounds over      over                                    --------------------------------               bay
                            Barricaded     Unbarricaded                                  --------------------------------   Barricaded     Unbarricaded
                                                            Barricaded     Unbarricaded     Barricaded     Unbarricaded
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0..........           5           70             140              30              60              51             102               6              12
5..........          10           90             180              35              70              64             128               8              16
10.........          20          110             220              45              90              81             162              10              20
20.........          30          125             250              50             100              93             186              11              22
30.........          40          140             280              55             110             103             206              12              24
40.........          50          150             300              60             120             110             220              14              28
50.........          75          170             340              70             140             127             254              15              30
75.........         100          190             380              75             150             139             278              16              32
100........         125          200             400              80             160             150             300              18              36
125........         150          215             430              85             170             159             318              19              38
150........         200          235             470              95             190             175             350              21              42
200........         250          255             510             105             210             189             378              23              46
250........         300          270             540             110             220             201             402              24              48
300........         400          295             590             120             240             221             442              27              54
400........         500          320             640             130             260             238             476              29              58
500........         600          340             680             135             270             253             506              31              62
600........         700          355             710             145             290             266             532              32              64
700........         800          375             750             150             300             278             556              33              66
800........         900          390             780             155             310             289             578              35              70
900........       1,000          400             800             160             320             300             600              36              72
1,000......       1,200          425             850             165             330             318             636              39              78
1,200......       1,400          450             900             170             340             336             672              41              82
1,400......       1,600          470             940             175             350             351             702              43              86
1,600......       1,800          490             980             180             360     &nbsp;       366             732              44              88
1,800......       2,000          505           1,010             185             370             378             756              45              90
2,000......       2,500          545           1,090             190             380             408             816              49              98
2,500......       3,000          580           1,160             195             390             432             864              52             104
3,000......       4,000          635           1,270             210             420             474             948              58             116
4,000......       5,000          685           1,370             225             450             513           1,026              61             122
5,000......       6,000          730           1,460             235             470             546           1,092              65             130
6,000......       7,000          770           1,540             245             490             573           1,146              68             136
7,000......       8,000          800           1,600             250             500             600           1,200              72             144
8,000......       9,000          835           1,670             255             510             624           1,248              75             150
9,000......      10,000          865           1,730             260             520             645           1,290              78             156
10,000.....      12,000          875           1,750             270             540             687           1,374              82             164
12,000.....      14,000          885           1,770             275             550             723           1,446              87             174

[[Page 773]]


14,000.....      16,000          900           1,800             280             560             756           1,512              90             180
16,000.....      18,000          940           1,880             285             570             786           1,572              94             188
18,000.....      20,000          975           1,950             290             580             813           1,626              98             196
20,000.....      25,000        1,055           2,000             315             630             876           1,752             105             210
25,000.....      30,000        1,130           2,000             340             680             933           1,866             112             224
30,000.....      35,000        1,205           2,000             360             720             981           1,962             119             238
35,000.....      40,000        1,275           2,000             380             760           1,026           2,000             124             248
40,000.....      45,000        1,340           2,000             400             800           1,068           2,000             129             258
45,000.....      50,000        1,400           2,000             420             840           1,104           2,000             135             270
50,000.....      55,000        1,460           2,000             440             880           1,140           2,000             140             280
55,000.....      60,000        1,515           2,000             455             910           1,173           2,000             145             290
60,000.....      65,000        1,565           2,000             470             940           1,206           2,000             150             300
65,000.....      70,000        1,610           2,000             485             970           1,236           2,000             155             310
70,000.....      75,000        1,655           2,000             500           1,000           1,263           2,000             160             320
75,000.....      80,000        1,695           2,000             510           1,020           1,293           2,000             165             330
80,000.....      85,000        1,730           2,000             520           1,040           1,317           2,000             170             340
85,000.....      90,000        1,760           2,000             530           1,060           1,344           2,000             175             350
90,000.....      95,000        1,790           2,000             540           1,080           1,368           2,000             180             360
95,000.....     100,000        1,815           2,000             545           1,090           1,392           2,000             185             370
100,000....     110,000        1,835           2,000             550           1,100           1,437           2,000             195             390
110,000....     120,000        1,855           2,000             555           1,110           1,479           2,000             205             410
120,000....     130,000        1,875           2,000             560           1,120           1,521           2,000             215             430
130,000....     140,000        1,890           2,000             565           1,130           1,557           2,000             225             450
140,000....     150,000        1,900           2,000             570           1,140           1,593           2,000             235             470
150,000....     160,000        1,935           2,000             580           1,160           1,629           2,000             245             490
160,000....     170,000        1,965           2,000             590           1,180           1,662           2,000             255             510
170,000....     180,000        1,990           2,000             600           1,200           1,695           2,000             265             530
180,000....     190,000        2,010           2,010             605           1,210           1,725           2,000             275             550
190,000....     200,000        2,030           2,030             610           1,220           1,755           2,000             285             570
200,000....     210,000        2,055           2,055             620           1,240           1,782           2,000             295             590
210,000....     230,000        2,100           2,100             635           1,270           1,836           2,000             315             630
230,000....     250,000        2,155           2,155             650           1,300           1,890           2,000             335             670
250,000....     275,000        2,215           2,215             670           1,340           1,950           2,000             360             720
275,000....     300,000        2,275           2,275             690           1,380           2,000           2,000             385             770
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Table: American Table of Distances for Storage of Explosives (December 
      1910), as Revised and Approved by the Institute of Makers of 
                         Explosives--July, 1991.

        Notes to the Table of Distances for Storage of Explosives

    (1) Terms found in the table of distances for storage of explosive 
materials are defined in Sec. 55.11.
    (2) When two or more storage magazines are located on the same 
property, each magazine must comply with the minimum distances specified 
from inhabited buildings, railways, and highways, and, in addition, they 
should be separated from each other by not less than the distances shown 
for ``Separation of Magazines,'' except that the quantity of explosives 
contained in cap magazines shall govern in regard to the spacing of said 
cap magazines from magazines containing other explosives. If any two or 
more magazines are separated from each other by less than the specified 
``Separation of Magazines'' distances, then such two or more magazines, 
as a group, must be considered as one magazine, and the total quantity 
of explosives stored in such group must be treated as if stored in a 
single magazine located on the site of any magazine of the group, and 
must comply with the minimum of distances specified from other 
magazines, inhabited buildings, railways, and highways.
    (3) All types of blasting caps in strengths through No. 8 cap should 
be rated at 1\1/2\ lbs. of explosives per 1,000 caps. For strengths 
higher than No. 8 cap, consult the manufacturer.
    (4) For quantity and distance purposes, detonating cord of 50 or 60 
grains per foot should be calculated as equivalent to 9 lbs. of high 
explosives per 1,000 feet. Heavier or lighter core loads should be rated 
proportionately.

[[Page 774]]


[T.D. ATF-87, 46 FR 40384, Aug. 7, 1981, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45003, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.219  Table of distances for storage of low explosives.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Pounds                  From       From public
-----------------------------   inhabited     railroad and   From above
                                 building       highway        ground
     Over         Not over       distance       distance      magazine
                                  (feet)         (feet)        (feet)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0............      1,000            75             75             50
1,000........      5,000           115            115             75
5,000........     10,000           150            150            100
10,000.......     20,000           190            190            125
20,000.......     30,000           215            215            145
30,000.......     40,000           235            235            155
40,000.......     50,000           250            250            165
50,000.......     60,000           260            260            175
60,000.......     70,000           270            270            185
70,000.......     80,000           280            280            190
80,000.......     90,000           295            295            195
90,000.......    100,000           300            300            200
100,000......    200,000           375            375            250
200,000......    300,000           450            450            300
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec. 55.220  Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and 
          blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents.

Table: Department of Defense Ammunition and Explosives Standards, Table 
                  5-4.1 Extract; 4145.27 M, March 1969

------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Donor weight (pounds)     Minimum separation distance
----------------------------- of acceptor from donor when     Minimum
                                    barricaded (ft.)        thickness of
                             -----------------------------   artificial
     Over         Not over       Ammonium      Blasting      barricades
                                 nitrate         agent         (in.)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     100             3             11            12
100..........        300             4             14            12
300..........        600             5             18            12
600..........      1,000             6             22            12
1,000........      1,600             7             25            12
1,600........      2,000             8             29            12
2,000........      3,000             9             32            15
3,000........      4,000            10             36            15
4,000........      6,000            11             40            15
6,000........      8,000            12             43            20
8,000........     10,000            13             47            20
10,000.......     12,000            14             50            20
12,000.......     16,000            15             54            25
16,000.......     20,000            16             58            25
20,000.......     25,000            18             65            25
25,000.......     30,000            19             68            30
30,000.......     35,000            20             72            30
35,000.......     40,000            21             76            30
40,000.......     45,000            22             79            35
45,000.......     50,000            23             83            35
50,000.......     55,000            24             86            35
55,000.......     60,000            25             90            35
60,000.......     70,000            26             94            40
70,000.......     80,000            28            101            40
80,000.......     90,000            30            108            40
90,000.......    100,000            32            115            40
100,000......    120,000            34            122            50
120,000......    140,000            37            133            50
140,000......    160,000            40            144            50
160,000......    180,000            44            158            50
180,000......    200,000            48            173            50
200,000......    220,000            52            187            60
220,000......    250,000            56            202            60
250,000......    275,000            60            216            60
275,000......    300,000            64            230            60
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Official Standard No. 
                                492, 1968

Notes of Table of Separation Distances of Ammonium Nitrate and Blasting 
                Agents From Explosives or Blasting Agents

    (1) This table specifies separation distances to prevent explosion 
of ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate-based blasting agents by 
propagation from nearby stores of high explosives or blasting agents 
referred to in the table as the ``donor.'' Ammonium nitrate, by itself, 
is not considered to be a donor when applying this table. Ammonium 
nitrate, ammonium nitrate-fuel oil or combinations thereof are 
acceptors. If stores of ammonium nitrate are located within the 
sympathetic detonation distance of explosives or blasting agents, one-
half the mass of the ammonium nitrate is to be included in the mass of 
the donor.
    (2) When the ammonium nitrate and/or blasting agent is not 
barricaded, the distances shown in the table must be multiplied by six. 
These distances allow for the possibility of high velocity metal 
fragments from mixers, hoppers, truck bodies, sheet metal structures, 
metal containers, and the like which may enclose the ``donor.'' Where 
explosives storage is in bullet-resistant magazines or where the storage 
is protected by a bullet-resistant wall, distances and barricade 
thicknesses in excess of those prescribed in the table in Sec. 55.218 
are not required.
    (3) These distances apply to ammonium nitrate that passes the 
insensitivity test prescribed in the definition of ammonium nitrate 
fertilizer issued by the Fertilizer Institute.<SUP>1</SUP>Ammonium 
nitrate failing to pass the test must be stored at separation distances 
in accordance with the table in Sec. 55.218.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    <SUP>1</SUP> Definition and Test Procedures for Ammonium Nitrate 
Fertilizer, Fertilizer Institute 1015-18th St. N.W. Washington, DC 
20036.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (4) These distances apply to blasting agents which pass the 
insensitivity test prescribed in regulations of the U.S. Department of 
Transportation (49 CFR part 173).
    (5) Earth or sand dikes, or enclosures filled with the prescribed 
minimum thickness of

[[Page 775]]

earth or sand are acceptable artificial barricades. Natural barricades, 
such as hills or timber of sufficient density that the surrounding 
exposures which require protection cannot be seen from the ``donor'' 
when the trees are bare of leaves, are also acceptable.
    (6) For determining the distances to be maintained from inhabited 
buildings, passenger railways, and public highways, use the table in 
Sec. 55.218.

Sec. 55.221  Requirements for display fireworks, pyrotechnic 
          compositions, and explosive materials used in assembling 
          fireworks or articles pyrotechnic.

    (a) Display fireworks, pyrotechnic compositions, and explosive 
materials used to assemble fireworks and articles pyrotechnic shall be 
stored at all times as required by this Subpart unless they are in the 
process of manufacture, assembly, packaging, or are being transported.
    (b) No more than 500 pounds (227 kg) of pyrotechnic compositions or 
explosive materials are permitted at one time in any fireworks mixing 
building, any building or area in which the pyrotechnic compositions or 
explosive materials are pressed or otherwise prepared for finishing or 
assembly, or any finishing or assembly building. All pyrotechnic 
compositions or explosive materials not in immediate use will be stored 
in covered, non-ferrous containers.
    (c) The maximum quantity of flash powder permitted in any fireworks 
process building is 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
    (d) All dry explosive powders and mixtures, partially assembled 
display fireworks, and finished display fireworks shall be removed from 
fireworks process buildings at the conclusion of a day's operations and 
placed in approved magazines.

[T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3722, Feb. 5, 1990, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45004, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.222  Table of distances between fireworks process buildings and 
          between fireworks process and fireworks nonprocess buildings.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Display fireworks  Consumer fireworks
   Net weight of fireworks \1\        \2\ (feet)          \3\ (feet)
            (pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  0-100.........................  57................  37
101-200.........................  69................  37
201-300.........................  77................  37
301-400.........................  85................  37
401-500.........................  91................  37
Above 500.......................  Not permitted \4\   Not permitted \4\
                                   \5\.                \5\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Net weight is the weight of all pyrotechnic compositions, and
  explosive materials and fuse only.
\2\ The distances in this column apply only with natural or artificial
  barricades. If such barricades are not used, the distances must be
  doubled.
\3\ While consumer fireworks or articles pyrotechnic in a finished state
  are not subject to regulation, explosive materials used to manufacture
  or assemble such fireworks or articles are subject to regulation.
  Thus, fireworks process buildings where consumer fireworks or articles
  pyrotechnic are being processed shall meet these requirements.
\4\ A maximum of 500 pounds of in-process pyrotechnic compositions,
  either loose or in partially-assembled fireworks, is permitted in any
  fireworks process building. Finished display fireworks may not be
  stored in a fireworks process building.
\5\ A maximum of 10 pounds of flash powder, either in loose form or in
  assembled units, is permitted in any fireworks process building.
  Quantities in excess of 10 pounds must be kept in an approved
  magazine.


[T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3723, Feb. 5, 1990, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45004, Aug. 24, 1998]

Sec. 55.223  Table of distances between fireworks process buildings and 
          other specified areas.

   Distance from Passenger Railways, Public Highways, Fireworks Plant
  Buildings used to Store Consumer Fireworks and Articles Pyrotechnic,
Magazines and Fireworks Shipping Buildings, and Inhabited Buildings. \3\
                                 \4\ \5\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Display fireworks  Consumer fireworks
   Net weight of fireworks \1\        \1\ (feet)          \2\ (feet)
            (pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  0-100.........................  200...............  25
101-200.........................  200...............  50
201-300.........................  200...............  50
301-400.........................  200...............  50
401-500.........................  200...............  50
Above 500.......................  Not permitted.....  Not permitted.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Net weight is the weight of all pyrotechnic compositions, and
  exposive materials and fuse only.
\2\ While consumer fireworks or articles pyrotechnic in a finished state
  are not subject to regulation, explosive materials used to manufacture
  or assemble such fireworks or articles are subject to regulation.
  Thus, fireworks process buildings where consumer fireworks or articles
  pyrotechnic are being processed shall meet these requirements.
\3\ This table does not apply to the separation distances between
  fireworks process buildings (see Sec.  55.222) and between magazines
  (see Secs.  55.218 and 55.224).
\4\ The distances in this table apply with or without artificial or
  natural barricades or screen barricades. However, the use of
  barricades is highly recommended.
\5\ No work of any kind, except to place or move items other than
  explosive materials from storage, shall be conducted in any building
  designated as a warehouse. A fireworks plant warehouse is not subject
  to Sec.  55.222 or this section, tables of distances.


[T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3723, Feb. 5, 1990, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45004, Aug. 24, 1998]

[[Page 776]]

Sec. 55.224  Table of distances for the storage of display fireworks 
          (except bulk salutes).

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Distance between
                                      magazine and
                                  inhabited building,   Distance between
   Net weight of firework \1\      passenger railway,  magazines \2\ \3\
            (pounds)               or public highway         (feet)
                                     \3\ \4\ (feet)

------------------------------------------------------------------------
0-1000..........................  150................             100
1001-5000.......................  230................             150
5001-10000......................  300................             200
Above 10000.....................  Use table Sec.       .................
                                   55.218
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Net weight is the weight of all pyrotechnic compositions, and
  exposive materials and fuse only.
\2\ For the purposes of applying this table, the term ``magazine'' also
  includes fireworks shipping buildings for display fireworks.
\3\ For fireworks storage magazines in use prior to (30 days from the
  date of publication of the final rule in the Federal Register), the
  distances in this table may be halved if properly barricaded between
  the magazine and potential receptor sites.
\4\ This table does not apply to the storage of bulk salutes. Use table
  at Sec.  55.218.


[T.D. ATF-293, 55 FR 3723, Feb. 5, 1990, as amended by T.D. ATF-400, 63 
FR 45004, Aug. 24, 1998]

[[Page 777]]