The Netherlands is preparing to experience a New Year’s Eve radically different from the past, becoming the first nation in Europe to adopt such a drastic measure. From 1 August 2026, the Safe New Year’s Eve Law, promoted by the Progressive Netherlands and the Party for the Animals, officially came into force. The legislation prohibits the purchase, possession and use of fireworks by private citizens starting on New Year’s Eve between 2026 and 2027.
Only low risk items allowed
The measure aims to drastically reduce accidents, injuries and material damage, putting the protection of domestic and wild animals at the centre. For dogs, cats and local fauna, the explosions and flashes of the night of the holiday represent a real nightmare made of terror, disorientation and desperate attempts to escape. Only low-risk items in the F1 category, such as twinkling stars, and large fireworks displays organized by licensed professionals will be permitted.
Local exceptions for mayors and the three conditions of the Chamber
To allow the measure to be given the definitive green light, the government led by the Secretary of State for Infrastructure Annet Bertram had to satisfy 3 conditions set by the House of Representatives: a rigorous control plan, a reimbursement system for retailers and the ability to grant local exemptions. Having collected the reservations of the Council of State, the decree established that mayors will be able to grant exemptions only to associations or foundations with proven territorial ties, such as sports clubs or neighborhood committees. These entities will have to guarantee the same safety distances provided for professionals, equal to 15, 40 or 60 meters based on the type of bang used.
The race to buy barrels in Belgium
Despite the clear ecological and protection nature, the decision sparked heated controversy. Many Dutch citizens have already started stocking up on pyrotechnics in shops in neighboring Belgium, defying controls and fueling the risk of the illegal market. In fact, in the sales points on the border there are record turnouts and a continuous flow of Dutch buyers ready to purchase entire boxes of barrels and batteries of fireworks, stocking up with the same frenzy with which they purchased basic necessities during the most acute phases of the pandemic.
The merchants’ revolt
On the economic front, over 120 traders led by spokesperson Cees van der Horst have united in the RENCO association to start a legal battle against the state. The entrepreneurs consider the state compensation to be completely insufficient, consisting of a fixed 3,500 euros, one year of lost profit and a further 15% on earnings, requiring ten-year support similar to that granted in the past to mink farmers. However, the findings show that 36% of public opinion considers the economic measure balanced and 32% even too generous, confirming how the majority’s priority is now to guarantee peaceful celebrations without suffering for animals.
