No. Owning a flamethrower in South Africa is prohibited under the Dangerous Weapons Act, 1968 and Firearms Control Act, 2000, unless licensed for agricultural or industrial use. The South African Police Service (SAPS) classifies flamethrowers as prohibited weapons, with no civilian ownership permits issued.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in South Africa
- Prohibition under the Dangerous Weapons Act: Flamethrowers are explicitly listed as prohibited weapons, making civilian possession illegal without exception.
- Firearms Control Act enforcement: The SAPS Firearms Licensing Unit denies permits for flamethrowers, aligning with the 2026 draft amendments tightening control over non-lethal but high-risk devices.
- Customs and Excise restrictions: Importing flamethrowers requires prior approval from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and SAPS, which is routinely denied for private individuals.
Violations may result in confiscation, fines up to R10,000, or imprisonment under the Criminal Procedure Act. Agricultural or industrial entities may apply for exemptions through the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, subject to rigorous safety inspections.