Obtaining and maintaining a Federal Explosives License (FEL) or Permit (FEP)under the Safe Explosives Act (SEA) is critical for any business or individual handling explosive materials. The application process, governed by 27 CFR Part 555, is complex and demands precision. Our attorneys, who have successfully worked on these matters for decades, guide clients through selecting the appropriate license or permit type—whether for manufacturing, importing, dealing, or limited use—and prepare applications to meet ATF’s stringent requirements. We ensure compliance with background checks, storage standards, and state/local laws to expedite approvals and avoid delays. From initial applications to renewals, relocations, or expansions, we provide comprehensive support to align with ATF’s enforcement priorities. Our expertise minimizes risks of denials or violations, keeping your operations lawful and efficient.

The explosives and pyrotechnic industry faces rigorous oversight under the SEA and related regulations, with requirements spanning storage, transportation, recordkeeping, and security. Our firm designs tailored compliance programs to fit your business model, including internal policies, employee training, and voluntary security plans to prevent theft or misuse. We ensure adherence to ATF standards, such as magazine construction (27 CFR § 555.202–§ 555.224) and transaction reporting, as well as DOT transportation rules.  Our proactive approach identifies vulnerabilities before they become violations, safeguarding your license and reputation. As ongoing compliance counsel, we review operational changes and transactions to maintain alignment with federal and state laws.

ATF compliance inspections are a fact of life for explosives licensees and permittees, scrutinizing storage facilities, records, and security measures. Our team, including former ATF Industry Operations Investigators, conducts mock audits to prepare you for the real thing. We review inventory logs, ATF Form 5400.28 employee reports, and magazine compliance to pinpoint and correct issues in advance. If violations are cited, we craft corrective action plans, negotiate with ATF, and defend against license or permit revocation. We also pursue resolutions which do not involve revocation of the license or permit. From administrative hearings to federal court, our goal is to protect your operations and resolve issues with minimal disruption.

Innovations in explosives and blasting technologies often raise complex regulatory questions. ATF classification decisions determine whether a product falls under specific SEA restrictions or requires special permits. We assist clients in submitting classification requests, analyzing proposed designs, and securing variances for unique applications.  Our services also cover marking, storage, and transportation requirements for new explosive materials. By addressing regulatory concerns early, we help manufacturers and developers bring products to market confidently and in compliance with 18 U.S.C. Chapter 40.