Fireworks Ban and New Year's Eve

As of August 1, 2026, a nationwide ban on consumer fireworks is in effect. This means that you may no longer possess, purchase, sell, or set off consumer fireworks, with the exception of permitted F1 fireworks.

In Kerkrade, setting off fireworks is prohibited for everyone throughout the year. This also applies during New Year’s Eve. The municipality does not grant exemptions for setting off fireworks.

By celebrating a fireworks-free New Year’s Eve, we aim to prevent disturbances and damage and ensure a safe and clean New Year’s Eve for people, animals, and the environment.

Why a fireworks ban?

Fireworks can cause disturbances, injuries, damage to buildings and public spaces, and distress to animals. By not setting off fireworks, we can limit these disturbances and damage. This way, we make New Year’s Eve safer for everyone in Kerkrade.

Which fireworks are allowed?

You may set off only Category F1 fireworks year-round, provided you follow the applicable rules and are at least 12 years old. F1 fireworks are light fireworks, also known as novelty or joke fireworks. Examples include sparklers, firecrackers, and string fizzers.

Please note: Even when setting off F1 fireworks, you must be considerate of others and your surroundings.

You can tell which category the fireworks fall into by looking at the packaging. Does it say "F1"? If so, you're allowed to set them off.

Which fireworks are prohibited?

Setting off heavier consumer fireworks and professional fireworks is prohibited. This also applies during New Year's Eve.

• Categories F2 and F3: heavier consumer fireworks, such as fountains and decorative rockets. You are not allowed to set off these fireworks.
• Category F4: Heavy fireworks intended for professional use. You are not allowed to set off these fireworks.
• Illegal fireworks: examples include cobras, string fireworks, avalanche rockets, mortar bombs, and baby rockets.

You can tell which category the fireworks fall into by looking at the packaging. If it says a category other than F1, or if there is no category listed, then you are not allowed to set them off.

What are the consequences if you set off fireworks anyway?

Anyone who violates the fireworks ban risks a fine. The police or enforcement officers may confiscate the fireworks. It may also affect your criminal record.

Possession or setting off illegal fireworks may result in higher fines and more severe penalties.

No exemptions

The municipality of Kerkrade does not grant exemptions for setting off fireworks.

New Year's Eve is one of the busiest times of the year for emergency services, the police, and law enforcement. Checking exemptions and the associated Requirements requires additional resources that are not available.

In addition, every application must be carefully evaluated. This involves determining whether setting off fireworks can be done safely and responsibly, and what Requirements are required for this. Due to the late entry into force of the national regulations, it is no longer possible to establish a thorough evaluation process for this purpose.

That is why we are opting for a clear, transparent, and practical approach: no exemptions will be granted.

Report Nuisance Caused by Fireworks

Are you experiencing nuisance from fireworks, or have you seen fireworks being used to cause damage? If so, you can report it in the following ways:

• Through the BuitenBeter app: report fireworks-related disturbances or damage to public spaces.
• For Enforcement: call 045 – 567 63 48.
• To contact the police: call 0900 – 88 44.
• In an emergency: Call 112 if there is a life-threatening situation or if emergency services are needed immediately.

Report the sale or storage of fireworks

Do you suspect that fireworks are being sold or stored somewhere? If so, please report it to the police at 0900 – 8844. Would you like to make your report anonymously? If so, please contact Report Crime Anonymously at 0800 – 7000.