75% of Dutch municipalities favor nationwide fireworks ban

The Dutch Association of Municipalities (VNG) revealed that a significant majority of municipalities support a national ban on consumer fireworks following widespread injuries and property damage during the 2024-2025 New Year’s Eve celebrations. The findings come after the Tweede Kamer approved legislation to enforce the ban starting with the 2026-2027 year-end festivities.

In a March 2025 survey conducted by the VNG, 166 municipalities were asked whether they favored a nationwide ban on consumer fireworks. Of these, 125 municipalities, or just over 75 percent, expressed support for the measure, while 41 opposed it. The VNG’s Committee on Governance and Safety commissioned the poll to reassess municipal views following a similar survey in 2022.

Supporters of the ban argue that a nationwide prohibition would reduce the nuisance and damage caused by fireworks to people, animals, and the environment. They emphasize that a uniform legal framework would offer clearer rules and simplify enforcement, helping to curb the disturbances that occur every year during New Year’s Eve. This position aligns with the VNG’s official stance, which supports a national ban provided it is both enforceable and practical.

The association also criticizes local bans that vary by municipality, pointing out that inconsistent rules create confusion and complicate law enforcement.

Opponents, however, caution that a national ban may drive an increase in illegal fireworks sales, as was seen with previous local restrictions. They highlight concerns over insufficient policing resources to control black-market trade and warn that the social and cultural significance of fireworks celebrations is often underestimated in the debate. According to these critics, the ban could lead to more challenges rather than fewer.

Municipalities responding to the survey also raised concerns about the practical execution of the ban, citing challenges related to enforcement, the costs involved in implementation, and overall feasibility. These issues will be examined in greater detail in an upcoming feasibility study conducted by the VNG’s Knowledge Center for Analysis.