Fireworks cause numerous fires and injuries globally; regulations vary, with some countries banning private use for safety.
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In Poland, fireworks cause hundreds of fires annually during New Year’s Eve, leading to numerous emergency service calls and injuries such as burns and hearing damage, most often affecting the users themselves. Polish law permits fireworks use in public places only on December 31st and January 1st without a permit; otherwise, permission and landowner consent are required. Activists advocate for an outright ban on sales, arguing that current regulations are easily circumvented, as private use is permitted under broad conditions. While two parliamentary projects aim to limit pyrotechnics, neither bans sales. In contrast, the Netherlands has implemented a nationwide ban on private fireworks use starting in 2026/2027 to enhance safety and protect animals and the environment, replacing private displays with organized municipal events following several fatal incidents. Other countries have varying regulations: Croatia allows use from December 27th to January 1st but has loopholes; Lithuania restricts use near sensitive locations but allows exceptions based on landowner agreement; and Spain regulates fireworks through national decrees while local authorities can impose further restrictions, with fines reaching up to 1500 euros. Furthermore, some cities have banned noisy fireworks during public events due to concerns over animal welfare and public health.
