No exemptions for setting off fireworks in Zwartewaterland this New Year

Since 1 August 2026, a nationwide ban on consumer fireworks has been in force under the Safe New Year's Eve Act (Wet veilige jaarwisseling). Under this law, mayors have the authority to grant exemptions, under certain conditions, for setting off F2 fireworks during the New Year's Eve period itself. Compagner has decided not to make use of that option this year.

In practice, this means that in Zwartewaterland no exemption will be issued for setting off F2 fireworks between 18:00 on 31 December 2026 and 02:00 on 1 January 2027. Outside that window, the ban already applied without exception. Any applications for an exemption that are nevertheless submitted to the municipality will be rejected with reference to this policy rule.

The municipality cites several reasons for the decision. Since this is the first New Year's Eve under the new national ban, the mayor first wants to gain experience with how enforceable it is before allowing any exceptions. According to the policy rule, it is almost impossible for police and enforcement officers to distinguish, during the New Year's Eve period, between legally set-off fireworks under an exemption and illegal fireworks. The municipality also points to uncertainty surrounding liability insurance for exemption holders, and the short time available since the law took effect to set up a careful application procedure.

Consultations with the local triangle (the mayor, police and Public Prosecution Service) show that the Public Prosecution Service and the police agree with the decision not to grant any exemptions. The fire brigade, too, endorses the benefit of the restriction for the safety of emergency responders, according to the municipality.

The policy rule takes effect the day after publication in the official electronic municipal gazette (elektronisch gemeenteblad). After the upcoming New Year, the municipality will review the national experiences with the new ban and take these into account when considering any adjustments to the policy for future years.