Who issues the permit for explosives use on private property such as a ski resort?

• A. County sheriff
• B. City council
• C. State police
• D. Fire marshal

Answer: (A)

When a blasting or explosives operation is planned on private land, the authority to issue a permit usually rests with the public-safety body closest to the site. The county sheriff’s office handles these permits because they oversee dangerous activities within the county, ensure there’s a proper blasting plan, trained personnel, safe storage of materials, and notification and protections for nearby people and property. They also coordinate with other responders in case something goes wrong, providing local oversight and accountability.

A city council tends to deal with local ordinances and zoning, but not the specific licensing of explosive use. State police may handle certain statewide licenses or interjurisdictional matters, but for a private-property operation within a county, the sheriff’s office is typically the issuing authority so oversight remains local and responsive. The fire marshal focuses on fire safety and inspections, not the actual permit to use explosives, though they may be involved in related safety reviews.