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Netherlands Sets Permit Rules for Collective Fireworks Ahead of New Year’s Consumer Ban

Police forecast heavier workload in the first years of enforcement.

Overview

  • The cabinet detailed national conditions for group permits, including a maximum of eight participants, a minimum age of 16, at least two adults present, and a prohibition on firing while under the influence.
  • Municipalities may impose stricter local rules under the framework, and the ban is intended to apply for the coming New Year’s Eve with compensation for the fireworks sector still to be finalized.
  • Police advise that early years will require intensified border controls and more time for seizures and investigations into illegal trade before potential longer‑term gains in safety.
  • Reporting indicates that approved events may be allowed to set off up to 200 kilograms of F2 fireworks with a mayor’s approval, a shift from previous individual limits.
  • Some mayors and industry representatives say the decentralized permitting plan is difficult to execute and could produce uneven rules and more illegal supply.