The Dutch won't be able to set off fireworks on their own anymore

From 1 August, the Netherlands will introduce a national ban on the sale and use of fireworks by private individuals. The new law will be enforced for the first time during the New Year's celebrations between 2026 and 2027: the Dutch will no longer be able to buy and light the traditional category F2 fireworks, while the smaller category F1 ones — sparklers and snap caps — will remain permitted. Professional displays will continue to be allowed. To preserve at least some of the tradition, local associations and foundations will be able to apply to their municipalities for a permit to organise small communal shows. The Dutch New Year should thus shift from thousands of private explosions to a handful of controlled public events. The compromise, however, risks remaining on paper. At least eighty municipalities, including Amsterdam, Utrecht, Eindhoven, Leiden and Breda, have already decided not to authorise local displays: they say they don't have enough time, specialist staff or officers to evaluate applications and enforce the new rules. To obtain a permit you need, among other things, resident involvement, a safe venue and €2.5 million in insurance. From next New Year's Eve, then, the Dutch will no longer be able to set off fireworks on their own. In many cities, in all likelihood, they won't be able to do it together either.