Fireworks

By 2026, there will be significant changes regarding the use of fireworks. On this page, you can read what this means for residents and visitors to the municipality of Opsterland.

New Rules for Fireworks During the 2026–2027 New Year's Eve Celebrations

The Safe New Year's Eve Act has been in effect since August 1, 2026. This means that, starting this year, a nationwide ban on fireworks for consumers is in effect.

On this page, you can read exactly what the new rules mean for you. If you would like more information about shooting carbide, please visit the carbide shooting page.

In a few days, the form that organizations can use to register a fireworks show will be posted on this page.

The date of the open house organized by the municipality will also be announced here.

What does the Safe New Year's Eve Act mean for me?

✅ What is allowed?

  • Organizing fireworks events as a local club or foundation. See all the information below.
  • Novelty and joke fireworks (Category F1): Sparklers, firecrackers, string flares, and small Bengal torches remain permitted year-round (for ages 12 and older).
  • Professional fireworks shows: organized by licensed companies. Applications for these shows continue to be processed through FUMO.
  • Carbide Shooting: The rules for carbide shooting remain unchanged. The standard municipal regulations apply. View our rules for carbide shooting here.

❌ No longer allowed

  • Independently purchasing, possessing, or setting off consumer fireworks (Categories F2 and F3), such as decorative fireworks, cake fireworks, compound boxes, and pop-off fireworks.
  • Setting off fireworks on the street: As a private citizen, you are no longer allowed to set off fireworks during New Year's Eve.

Information for Associations and Foundations

Are you a local club or foundation interested in organizing a fireworks event during New Year’s Eve?

The mayor of Opsterland may grant an exemption under strict safety conditions. The safety of residents and nearby residents is always the top priority.

Requirements To apply:

  • You are an existing association or foundation registered with the Chamber of Commerce at an address in the municipality of Opsterland.
  • You have a demonstrable connection to the local community of Opsterland.
  • When you submit your application, you must include a fully completed Safety Plan, including a site plan and the details of the safety supervisors.

Key safety requirements for an exemption:

  • Maximum quantity: Up to 200 kg of packaged Category F2 fireworks.
  • Fireworks times: Permitted only on December 31 between 6:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. on January 1.
  • Safety distances from the public:
    • Ground-based fireworks: at least 15 meters
    • Aerial fireworks (up to 1 inch): at least 40 meters
    • Aerial fireworks (1 to 2 inches): at least 60 meters
    • Fan cakes (cut at an angle): the distance is multiplied by 1.5
  • Supervision: At least 1 or 2 designated supervisors and no more than 8 people setting off the fireworks.

Note!

For gatherings with more than 200 attendees or those that include, for example, a party tent, a bar, or amplified music, you may also need an event permit. Please visit the event permit page on our website for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the frequently asked questions about the fireworks policy.

How much does it cost for an organization to apply for a fireworks permit?

There are no municipal fees associated with processing an application for a fireworks permit. 

Am I still allowed to set off fireworks on private property or in a yard?

No, the ban applies to all areas and properties, including private yards, driveways, and private pastures. Only recognized associations and foundations with a valid municipal exemption are permitted to set off fireworks at an approved location.

What is the difference between a fireworks exemption and an event permit?

The fireworks exemption applies exclusively to the authorization and safety requirements for setting off the fireworks themselves. Gatherings with more than 150 attendees, or those that include, for example, a party tent, a bar, or amplified music, also require an event permit.

What are the rules for novelty and joke fireworks (Category F1) on the street?

Category F1 fireworks (such as sparklers, firecrackers, and string flares) may be set off year-round by individuals 12 years of age and older. However, they must not pose a danger, cause a nuisance, or cause damage to nearby residents, passersby, or animals.

Where can I turn in my old consumer fireworks?

Since the possession of consumer fireworks is no longer permitted, the government is organizing a number of drop-off events; for more information, see: Drop-Off Campaign | Return Fireworks

How is the fireworks ban enforced in Opsterland?

Municipal enforcement officers (BOA's) and the police will be conducting additional patrols around New Year’s Eve. If you set off or possess illegal (consumer) fireworks, you risk a fine and a criminal record. Minors will be referred to Halt.

Where can I report disturbances caused by fireworks?

You can report disturbances to the police. In the event of an immediate danger or if you catch someone in the act, contact the police immediately at 0900-8844 (or 112 for emergencies).