New Rules for Fireworks

Celebrating New Year’s Eve is an important tradition for many people. Starting this year, this New Year’s Eve tradition will look different. Throughout the Netherlands, you will be prohibited from setting off almost any fireworks. Only F1 fireworks will remain permitted. These include, for example, sparklers and firecrackers. This ban also applies in Heerlen.

Photo of a hand holding a lit sparkler

Why is there a ban on fireworks?

During previous New Year’s Eve celebrations, many people were injured by fireworks. Half of them had not set off fireworks themselves. Hundreds of first responders also faced violence—including police, firefighters, and ambulance personnel.
The ban ensures a safer New Year’s Eve. There will be fewer accidents. There will also be less damage and disruption to people, animals, and the environment.
We understand that fireworks are important to many people. Nevertheless, policymakers have decided that from now on, we will celebrate New Year’s Eve without consumer fireworks. There is now one clear rule for the entire country.

What are you still allowed to set off?

You are now only allowed to set off F1 fireworks. These are also known as novelty fireworks. They are low-risk fireworks. Examples include:

  • stars
  • snap peas
  • string
  • ornamental fountains

You can recognize these fireworks by the "F1" label on the packaging.

Have you purchased fireworks before? Or have you purchased fireworks abroad? If so, you are no longer allowed to set them off.

No exemptions in Heerlen

Roel Wever , the mayor of Heerlen, will not grant any exemptions for setting off fireworks. This is how we’re working together to ensure a safer New Year’s Eve—with fewer accidents, disturbances, and acts of violence against first responders.

Want to know more?

Would you like to learn more about the fireworks ban? If so, please visit the website of the City of Amsterdam ( Rijksoverheid) at .